In spite of all our differences, the one thing that binds all living creatures is that we each have an expiration date. This finality to our existence is what makes life special, something to be cherished and protected. But occasionally things can go terribly wrong…
It was a nightmare for parents watching helplessly as the Yo-Yo ride spiraled out of control, tossing riders (mostly children) into the air and injuring all 23 at the Calaveras County Fair in California. Some victims were thrown through the air as chains snapped, and three riders were airlifted to nearby hospitals.
"It dropped down and dragged the kids around in circles," said Phillip Coulson, whose godson was on the ride. Sean Ranney, who exited the ride just before it crashed, described the scene: "We just saw people bouncing off the ground and hitting the ride. It happened three times. It bounced, bounced and bounced, then people started hitting the ground." Another witness, Cassidy Dean, was standing at the base of the ride when it went out of control. "I just saw all these little kids smashed into the ground," she said.
Investigators were trying to determine the cause, and carnival workers were being tested for drugs. The fair remained opened, but all carnival rides were closed as police investigated.
