Two Arrested After Birmingham Fairground Ride Incident

Following an incident where a Christmas fairground attraction “crashed to the ground” in Birmingham city centre, two men were taken into custody. West Midlands Police reported that the individuals, aged 55 and 21, were apprehended at the site on Thursday evening. Their arrests were made on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and obstructing officers, and they are currently being held. The City Star Flyer ride, located in Centenary Square, “failed and crashed,” resulting in two women being transported to the hospital. Additionally, paramedics evaluated 11 other individuals, who were subsequently released from the scene. Law enforcement officials stated that officers would maintain a presence at the Centenary Square location to support an investigation by the Health & Safety Executive. A cordon around the area was expected to stay in effect for the duration of the day. Emergency responders were dispatched to the attraction around 19:30 GMT. Barriers were erected separating the ice rink, the library, and the Rep theatre, and the public was advised to steer clear of the vicinity. Photographs captured by the BBC depicted wires from a minimum of two of the ride’s gondolas intertwined. The West Midlands Fire Service verified that the ride had “dropped to the ground” during its operational period. Louise Brown, who was aboard the 55-meter-high City Star Flyer ride when it collapsed, sustained injuries along with multiple other individuals. She commented, “It’s hard to process how one minute you can be innocently having fun and screaming in a scared way to then screaming because you could’ve potentially lost your life.” She added, “This can never happen again – we are in shock and all I can think of is, ‘What if my kids were on the ride’.” Danter Attractions, the operator of the ride, stated its “fully co-operating with the authorities” as the incident undergoes investigation. A representative for the company issued a statement: “Our thoughts are with the individuals and families affected. At this time we are unable to provide any additional comment.” Lilly Nitsch, an 18-year-old from Leamington Spa present at the site, informed the BBC that she was “pretty shocked” by what occurred. She remarked, “That’s one of my favourite rides growing up.” She continued, “It makes me think of of the times you’ve been on rides like that. It makes me feel lucky.” Further updates from BBC Birmingham are accessible on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. This material is copyrighted by BBC 2024, with all rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding the BBC’s approach to external linking is available.