Ferris Wheel Tragedy at German Music Festival Leaves Dozens Injured

Two people were seriously injured and dozens more suffered minor injuries when two cars on a Ferris wheel burst into flames at the Highfield Festival near Leipzig on August 17, 2024.

Dozens of people were injured, two of them seriously, when two cars on a Ferris wheel burst into flames at the Highfield Festival near Leipzig, Germany on August 17, 2024.

According to reports, the incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. at the music festival, which was attended by over 50,000 people. Witnesses described seeing flames and smoke coming from the two cars, which were located near the top of the Ferris wheel.

Ferris Wheel Tragedy at German Music Festival Leaves Dozens Injured

Emergency services responded quickly to the scene and evacuated the ride. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, where two people were reported to be in serious condition.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but police have ruled out foul play. One possible theory is that a technical malfunction caused the fire to start.

Ferris Wheel Tragedy at German Music Festival Leaves Dozens Injured

The Ferris wheel is a popular attraction at the Highfield Festival, and its sudden malfunction has raised concerns about safety standards at the event. Festival organizers have said that they will be reviewing their safety protocols in light of the incident.

The injured ranged in age from 15 to 50 years old, and most of them suffered minor injuries such as burns and smoke inhalation. However, two people were more seriously injured, with one suffering from severe burns and the other from smoke inhalation and a broken leg.

Ferris Wheel Tragedy at German Music Festival Leaves Dozens Injured

The festival was subsequently canceled for the rest of the weekend, and organizers have expressed their condolences to the victims and their families.

Witnesses to the incident described the scene as chaotic and terrifying.

"I was standing in line for the Ferris wheel when I saw a sudden flash of light and then smoke started billowing out," said one witness. "I could hear people screaming and running in all directions."

Another witness said that she saw one of the cars on fire as it was descending towards the ground. "It was like something out of a movie," she said. "The flames were so intense, and I could hear people inside screaming for help."

Emergency services arrived at the scene within minutes and quickly evacuated the Ferris wheel. Firefighters extinguished the fire and paramedics treated the injured.

"We were able to get everyone off the ride safely," said a spokesperson for the fire department. "However, two people were seriously injured and had to be taken to the hospital."

The police have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, and they are working with the festival organizers to review safety protocols.

The Highfield Festival is a popular music festival that has been held in Leipzig for over 20 years. The festival attracts over 50,000 people each year, and it features a diverse lineup of music, art, and culture.