Four children died and several more were seriously injured in an accident with a bouncy castle on Thursday (16) during a school holiday party in Australia. Strong winds lifted the toy, and whoever was inside fell from a height of 10 meters, local authorities said on Thursday (16).
The accident occurred at Hillcrest Primary School, in the city of Devonport, on the island of Tasmania, around 10:00 am (Brasilia time). The victims are two boys and two girls who were in the last year of primary school – usually pupils from that period are 10 or 11 years old. Five more children were in hospital, four in critical condition, authorities said.
“We are all in mourning,” Tasman Police Commissioner Darren Hine told reporters. “Our hearts break for the families and loved ones, schoolmates, teachers of those young people who were taken away too soon.”
No immediate explanation was given of how the bouncy castle was lifted into the air. Tasmanian Governor Peter Gutwein said “it is simply inconceivable that this shocking tragedy has occurred” and promised a full investigation.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the incident as “devastating and moving”. “Young children have a fun day, together with their families, and it all turns into a horrible tragedy at this time of year. It breaks your heart,” Morrison told reporters.
Several rescue helicopters and ambulances were dispatched to the scene.
The press showed footage of police officers crying in front of blue tarpaulins covering what some described as “a very shocking and harrowing scene”.
The school had invited parents to collaborate with the event, which included a play area, a toboggan run, an arts and crafts area, and the bouncy castle.
“The aim of the day is to celebrate a successful year and enjoy some fun activities with classmates,” said the institution, on its Facebook page.
The message got an update a few hours later: “There’s been an accident in our school grounds. We’re closing the school for the rest of the day.” “We ask that parents come and get their children urgently.”
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