Thrill Seekers Left Dangling 100 Feet as NC State Fair Ride Halts Due to Low Voltage
Fairgoers at the North Carolina State Fair experienced a terrifying moment when a ride malfunctioned, leaving them suspended 100 feet in the air. Known as The Vertigo, this ride stopped unexpectedly last Thursday afternoon due to a low-voltage issue.
Incident Details
The Vertigo is a popular attraction that elevates riders on swings high above the fairgrounds, spinning them as they enjoy the heights. However, the ride came to an abrupt halt, sparking panic among those onboard. Hannah Norris, a frequent visitor to the fair, was among those affected. She recounted her fears of falling, saying, “I just started praying.”
Safety Measures and Response
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture confirmed that the ride stopped automatically because of a low voltage fault, triggering a safety protocol. Heather Overton, a department spokesperson, assured that the ride’s safety system functioned as intended, allowing for a controlled stop. Passengers were safely evacuated within 45 minutes without any injuries.
The ride was soon reset and approved to continue operations. A representative from the company that owns The Vertigo offered a complimentary ride to those who were stranded during the incident.
Safety Inspections
Before the fair opened, inspectors from the North Carolina Department of Labor examined nearly 100 rides to ensure safety compliance. State law mandates that portable rides undergo inspection at each new location to prevent any malfunctions.
Previous Incidents: The Vortex
While the recent Vertigo incident ended safely, the North Carolina State Fair recalls a more severe incident involving another ride named The Vortex. On October 24, 2013, five individuals sustained serious injuries when the ride unexpectedly moved, causing passengers to fall from a height of 20 feet. Investigations revealed that the ride’s safety mechanism had been tampered with, leading to the arrest of the ride operator and owner.
Visitors can find assurance in the stringent safety measures enforced by the fair authorities and the commitment to responsible operations, maintaining a secure environment for all attendees.
