Fifteen people on the carnival ride classic “Octopus” were injured when one of the machine’s arms dropped and slammed riders onto the ground mid-ride. The accident happened last night at the the annual Phra Samut Chedi temple fair outside of Bangkok.
Video of the incident shows four cars connected to the broken “tentacle” hit the ground hard as the riders scream in terror. The ride kept spinning for about five more seconds before it finally slowed to a stop.
All 15 injured were sent to the hospital. One person suffered a fractured ankle, which was the most serious injury from the accident.
The operator of the machine, Anuchit Jaitiengtham, said that he has inspected the Octopus ride before the carnival began, and he immediately pushed the emergency stop button when the machine malfunctioned.
The machine’s owner, 60-year-old Somdej Radamee, is being questioned by the authorities. He may be charged with recklessness leading to the injury of others, INN News reported.
Meanwhile, Samut Prakarn Governor Chartchai Uthaipan said that the province’s Public Works officers will inspect all amusement rides at the carnival today and shut down any found to be unsafe, as the fair is scheduled to run through Sunday.
