A carnival in Antioch, Illinois, was shut down after a 10-year-old boy was thrown from a ride on Sunday afternoon. The victim, identified as Huntley, flew about 10 to 20 feet in the air before hitting the ground, according to a GoFundMe campaign started by his uncle Robert Pohlman. The child was airlifted to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge after the incident, which involved a ride called Moby Dick.
Carnival Shut Down
Antioch Mayor Scott Gartner ordered the remainder of the rides at the Taste of Antioch carnival to be shut down following the incident, and officials will review the safety of each ride in the meantime. Village officials believe the boy was not properly strapped into the ride when the incident occurred.
At least two people told local outlets that they experienced safety concerns with the ride, including Elliot Johnson, who said he had to re-secure the bar for his seat multiple times. Ronald Hipolito said his wife and son experienced a similar issue. The Illinois Department of Labor, which is responsible for carnival ride safety, is assisting in an investigation into Sunday’s incident.
The boy was injured in his face, jaw, and leg, underwent surgery, and is expected to survive. More than $16,600 has been raised to support him via GoFundMe as of Monday. Pohlman said his nephew is a “strong” and “truly remarkable” child.
Police Investigations
Antioch Police Chief Geoffrey Guttschow said his department is conducting an investigation and will be working with the Lake County state’s attorney to determine if any criminal charges will be appropriate under these circumstances.
The carnival was sponsored by the Antioch Chamber of Commerce, and Mayor Gartner said, “We are always trying to make sure these are safe, fun family events, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the child that fell and his family.”