A tragic accident occurred at a festival in Louisiana over the weekend when two girls were hospitalized after being ejected from a Ferris wheel. The incident took place during the annual Harvest Festival in New Roads, approximately 40 miles northwest of Baton Rouge.
Witnesses reported that the girls fell from a basket on the rotating ride, which became stuck at an angle before tipping upside down. One girl suffered broken bones, while the other sustained potential brain bleeding, according to authorities. Video footage captured the Ferris wheel paused mid-ride with a bucket overturned, revealing the severity of the accident.
Ronald Brasseaux, a festival attendee, described the scene, stating that the girls were thrown from the basket as it rotated. He noted that he had felt uneasy about the ride’s stability the previous day and urged its removal. A third child remained clinging to the suspended basket during the incident.
Local officials confirmed that both victims were transported to Children’s Hospital in Baton Rouge for treatment. While specific details about their injuries remain undisclosed, authorities indicated they are expected to survive. Following the accident, all festival rides were temporarily closed, with only the Ferris wheel remaining shuttered as investigations continue.
The Louisiana State Fire Marshals are examining the incident, with preliminary reports suggesting a mechanical failure in the seating mechanism may have contributed to the mishap. The Harvest Festival, which highlights agriculture and community through food, music, and attractions, is scheduled to run through Sunday.