Two young girls were hospitalized on Saturday after being ejected from a Ferris wheel at the annual Harvest Festival in New Roads, Louisiana. Authorities immediately closed all rides at the festival for inspection following the incident.
Key Takeaways
- Two girls were thrown from a Ferris wheel at the Harvest Festival in New Roads, Louisiana.
- Both girls were rushed to a local hospital for treatment.
- All festival rides were closed immediately for inspection by the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office.
- The Ferris wheel and an adjacent slide remain closed as the investigation continues.
Emergency Response at Harvest Festival
The incident occurred on Saturday at the Harvest Festival, a popular three-day annual event held on False River. Pointe Coupee Parish Sheriff Rene’ Thibodeaux confirmed that the girls were riding the Ferris wheel when they were thrown from their seats.
Emergency services responded quickly, transporting both girls to a hospital. Details regarding their conditions have not been released by authorities. The cause of the incident also remains under investigation.
Safety Measures Initiated
Following the event, Sheriff Thibodeaux mandated the immediate closure of all rides at the festival. This measure ensures that every attraction undergoes a thorough safety inspection before potentially reopening to the public. The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office is leading this critical review.
Ongoing Investigation and Ride Closures
The Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal has taken charge of the investigation into how the two riders fell from the Ferris wheel. This office is responsible for ensuring the safety of amusement rides across the state.
As of now, the specific Ferris wheel involved in the incident and an adjacent slide ride remain closed. These closures will continue until the investigation is complete and the rides are cleared as safe.
"All rides at the festival were closed for inspection until being cleared by the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office," Sheriff Rene’ Thibodeaux stated. This highlights the seriousness with which local authorities are approaching the situation.
The Harvest Festival, known for its rides, live music, and food, typically draws many attendees to False River. The festival was scheduled to run through Sunday, November 2.
Understanding Amusement Ride Safety
Amusement ride safety is a complex field involving rigorous design standards, regular maintenance, and strict operational protocols. State fire marshals and similar regulatory bodies conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance with these standards. Incidents like this underscore the importance of continuous vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines.
Community Impact and Festival Outlook
The incident has cast a shadow over the otherwise festive atmosphere of the Harvest Festival. Many families attend this annual event, and public safety is a primary concern for organizers and local officials.
While the festival continued with its other attractions, the closure of rides, especially a major one like the Ferris wheel, has undoubtedly affected the overall experience for visitors. The focus remains on the well-being of the injured girls and a thorough understanding of what led to this accident.
- Public Trust: Incidents like this can impact public trust in amusement park safety.
- Economic Impact: Ride closures can affect vendor revenues and festival attendance.
- Future Regulations: Investigations often lead to reviews of existing safety regulations and potential new measures.
The community in New Roads awaits further updates on the girls' condition and the findings of the State Fire Marshal's investigation. Ensuring the safety of all festival-goers remains the top priority for everyone involved.
