According to a report by the Bledsonian Banner, earlier this month, three children were injured on the Tempest ride, operated by Fox Creek Amusement Rides, at the Bledsoe County Fair, according to a report by Assistant Police Chief David Decker. A fiberglass or plastic umbrella collapsed on the children, causing one to sustain a head wound requiring 17 stitches and an emergency helicopter transfer; the child was reported stable and awaiting consultation with a plastic surgeon.

The other two children suffered minor injuries, with one experiencing cuts and bruises and the other reporting pain and a headache but later cleared by a physician. The ride’s operator, who showed no signs of impairment, stated he had inspected the ride at 5:00 p.m., with the accident occurring around 9:00 p.m. Decker’s investigation revealed a metal pole in the ride’s cart had snapped above its attachment point, though the pin and safety key remained intact.

The ride’s owner, Jonathan Lee White, reported no prior equipment issues. Decker found no evidence of negligence or criminal activity, suggesting possible metal fatigue as the cause.

The Tennessee Division of Labor and Workforce Amusement Ride Division was notified and provided with photos and details of the incident.