Worker pronounced dead at the scene
A carnival worker died after being struck by a ride at the Prince Rupert Summer Carnival in British Columbia, according to a report.
The incident occurred at approximately 10:40 p.m. PT on the opening night of the event on Tuesday, CBC noted.
Witnesses told the publication that the worker was on the deck of the Zipper ride, apparently to clean or attend to something, when he was hit by the moving ride.
The Zipper is a popular attraction that rotates riders in individual carts while spinning the entire structure.
Some fair-goers were trapped on the ride and called for help after the incident.
Shooting Star Amusements, the company operating the carnival, identified the victim as “a dear close friend and co-worker” and a “great man.” The company announced the carnival would remain closed on Wednesday and Thursday, and refunds would be offered for unused online purchases.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed they responded to a call about an unconscious man near one of the rides, and the worker was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to the CBC report.
Police referred further questions to WorkSafeBC and the B.C. Coroners Service, who have not released additional information while investigations are underway, reported CBC. Technical Safety B.C., which oversees amusement ride safety, is also investigating .
The City of Prince Rupert expressed condolences to the worker’s family, friends, and colleagues, and has made counsellors available for anyone affected.
