At least seven children have been injured after a fairground ride collapsed in Venezuela, with bystanders rushing to assist the victims. The incident took place in the town of El Callao, in Bolívar state, when the attraction known as "the flying chairs" gave way at a local amusement park at approximately 10.20pm on Saturday.
Rescue efforts and injuries
Footage shows crowds of people desperately attempting to lift the wreckage of the collapsed attraction, with children seen lying on the ground beneath it. Authorities confirmed that seven children sustained cuts and bruises, though the full extent of their injuries is not yet known.
Emergency services raced to the scene to treat those affected and transport them to nearby medical facilities, including the Juan Germán Roscio Hospital, where they remain under observation, according to El Nacional.
Investigation and closure
An investigation has been launched into the cause of the collapse, with early reports suggesting that an axle on the main frame failed, causing the seating structure to detach and plummet to the ground.
The theme park has since been closed down. It had been operated by its current company for only a month, and an inspection is now underway to determine whether all relevant safety regulations and guidelines were being adhered to.
Separate incident in Rotherham
Separately, three young people were injured on a fairground ride in Rotherham, prompting a significant emergency services response on Friday. Police and ambulance crews were dispatched to Maltby Crags Fair on Friday evening following reports of an incident involving a fairground ride.
South Yorkshire Police confirmed that two children, aged 11 and 13, along with a 21-year-old woman, sustained injuries and were transported to hospital for treatment. The incident is believed to have occurred at approximately 7.30pm. At least six police vehicles descended on the scene, according to local publication The Star.
A force spokesperson stated: "Emergency services are currently in attendance at an incident at Maltby Crags Fair in Rotherham after two young people, aged 11 and 13, and a 21-year-old woman [were] injured while on a ride.
"They have been taken to hospital for treatment and the fairground has now closed for the evening (11 September).
"Blyth Lane was closed between Muglet Lane and Victoria Road to allow people to safely exit the fairground but has since been reopened."
Former Rother Valley MP Alexander Stafford wrote on Facebook: "News from the fair in Maltby, where a ride has reportedly injured a child. I believe only one child is involved, but please check on your children if they are currently there."
