A Birmingham Christmas fairground witnessed chaos on the evening of December 12, as the highly anticipated Star Flyer ride dramatically failed, resulting in injuries to thirteen individuals, including two who required hospitalization. Emergency services rushed to Centenary Square at approximately 7:30 p.m. GMT after reports of the incident, leading to swift action and intense scenes as first responders worked to assist the injured.
Witnesses at the location described scenes of panic and urgency when the fairground attraction, which stands at 180 feet and features swings spinning around at great heights, dropped unexpectedly to ground level. Initial investigations suggest the ride's mechanisms malfunctioned, leaving seats on the ride tangled together, as captured by various images circulating online. One witness recounted seeing individuals who appeared injured walking away from the area, with at least one girl reported to have suffered facial injuries.
Police officials cordoned off sections surrounding the ice rink, library, and the Birmingham Repertory Theatre to manage the crowd and contain the emergency response. They urged the public to stay clear of the area for safety reasons. The police statement emphasized: “Centenary Square remains cordoned off this evening as we support our emergency service colleagues. Please avoid the area.”
According to the West Midlands Ambulance Service, two women were admitted to Midland Metropolitan University Hospital for treatment, though their injuries were not considered life-threatening. Meanwhile, eleven others were assessed at the scene and discharged without needing to be hospitalized.
Emergency responders included several ambulances, police units, and fire service personnel, who worked diligently at the scene. The West Midlands Fire Service confirmed they were present within four minutes of being alerted to the incident, ready to assist any potential casualties. Their spokesperson noted, "This incident involved a fairground ride which had failed and crashed. The ride dropped to ground level whilst still in operation."
Among those at the fairground was Lilly Nitsch, 18, from Leamington Spa, who expressed shock at the event, stating, "That’s one of my favorite rides growing up. It makes me reflect on the times you've been on rides like this; it makes me feel lucky to have escaped something worse."
Another bystander, Amelie Huet, who was enjoying refreshments at nearby facilities, witnessed the emergency response escalate rapidly, commenting on the visible police cars and ambulances: "It was alarming to see so many emergency vehicles all at once. Someone told us the structure dropped and someone fell out."
Concerns about ride safety and operational protocols have arisen following the incident, particularly about the attraction, which is operated by Danter Attractions, known for providing various rides during seasonal events. This incident marks another concerning episode for fairground safety as thrill-seeking rides have come under fire for potential hazards.
The Birmingham City Council acknowledged the situation, with spokespersons relaying their thoughts and well wishes for the injured parties. “We’re aware of the incident at Centenary Square. Our thoughts are with those who have been injured, and we wish them a speedy recovery,” the council spokesperson said.
For now, Centenary Square has been closed off, with authorities continuing their investigations as they look to determine the exact cause of the ride’s failure and to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The community is left shaken, grappling with the frightening reality of what could have been much worse. Observers and local residents alike are calling for rigorous checks and safeguards to be put in place as festivities continue through the season.
This incident raises pressing questions about the safety mechanisms on amusement rides and their upkeep, particularly those installed temporarily for special events like the Birmingham Christmas fair. The impact of this accident will undoubtedly linger as families ponder the safety of such attractions during their holiday outings.
Officials are urging anyone who witnessed the event or who may have been affected to reach out and report their experiences to assist with the investigation. Central to the response and recovery efforts is the community's resilience, and local leaders are determined to reestablish confidence as public festivities resume after this alarming incident.
More updates are anticipated as investigations continue and local authorities work to understand the full scope of what transpired on the fairground ride, ensuring the safety of all amusement activities at public events.