20 injured after Ferris wheel catches fire at festival in Germany

At the Highfield Festival near Leipzig, Germany, more than 20 people were injured when a Ferris wheel caught fire on Saturday evening. The incident, which unfolded around 9 p.m. local time, has left festival-goers and authorities grappling with the aftermath as investigations continue into the cause of the blaze.

The fire reportedly began in one of the Ferris wheel's gondolas and quickly spread to a second. The rapid escalation of the fire resulted in at least 23 individuals sustaining injuries. Among the injured, four people suffered burn injuries, while another individual was hurt from a fall during the chaos. Additionally, 18 people, including first responders and police officers, were exposed to smoke and required medical attention at local hospitals.

The Highfield Festival, held by the picturesque Störmthaler Lake, is a popular event that draws music enthusiasts from across the region. On the night of the incident, German rapper Ski Aggu was performing on stage. In a statement shared on his Instagram stories, Ski Aggu expressed his shock and dismay over the incident. He mentioned that he was advised to continue performing and keep communicating with the audience to prevent any mass panic, a decision that likely helped maintain order amid the unfolding crisis.

Images from the scene depict two of the Ferris wheel's cabins engulfed in flames, with thick plumes of smoke billowing into the night sky. The sight of the burning Ferris wheel against the backdrop of the festival's vibrant atmosphere was both surreal and terrifying for those in attendance. Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, cordoning off the area to ensure the safety of festival-goers and facilitate the ongoing investigation.

As of Sunday morning, authorities had not released specific details about the conditions of the injured individuals, and the exact number of casualties remained unconfirmed. The operator of the Ferris wheel informed local news agency dpa that no riders were present in the gondola where the fire originated, a fact that may have prevented even more severe injuries.

The incident has raised questions about the safety measures in place at such large-scale events. While the cause of the fire is still under investigation, the swift response from emergency services and the festival's management has been noted. The police have launched a thorough investigation to determine the factors that led to the fire, examining everything from the Ferris wheel's maintenance records to the festival's overall safety protocols.

In the wake of the incident, the festival organizers have expressed their commitment to cooperating fully with the investigation and ensuring the safety of all attendees. They have also extended their support to those affected by the incident, offering assistance to the injured and their families.

The Highfield Festival, known for its eclectic lineup and scenic location, has been a staple in the region's cultural calendar. However, this year's event will be remembered for the unfortunate Ferris wheel fire that disrupted the festivities and left many in shock.

As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on understanding the cause of the fire and preventing similar incidents in the future. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with large public gatherings and the importance of stringent safety measures to protect attendees.