Safety concerns grow for riders at the ‘Big El Paso Fair’
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Concerns are growing for some El Pasoans who visited the Big El Paso Fair this weekend after rides reportedly started breaking down.
The fair, which opened this past weekend, has been circulating on social media after two rides were seen experiencing mechanical issues.
El Paso resident Jesus Renteria told ABC-7 he bought tickets, but after seeing the rides malfunction on social media, he's been hesitant to attend.
Other fairgoers also told ABC-7 they are sticking to the smaller rides for kids, because they are afraid to get on the bigger ones.
Director of Marketing for the Big El Paso Fair, Steve White, told ABC-7 it was a hydraulic malfunction with the ride and said the rides safety features worked properly, shutting the ride down. He adds operators followed protocol and got people off.
Big El Paso Fair provided ABC-7 the following statement:
"To our fairgoers:
We are sharing this statement with you because of the misinformation that is on social media about the hydraulic issue with one of the amusement rides at the fair. No one was injured and no one was endangered at any time.The event that occurred on our Orbiter ride has been fully resolved.
Regarding the kiddie cobra coaster lost power and the ride came to a stop. Operator followed safety protocols, the guests were safely off loaded, and the power was restored. Safety is our upmost important concern at the Big El Paso Fair, each day before opening, each ride is inspected and tested before
operated.
We have an independent NARSO (National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials) certified ride inspector on site who inspects rides daily to ensure the safety of the public.
Thank you, we hope to see you at the fair."
Officials add 'The Orbiter' will not be in service until it is repaired fully and inspected.
ABC-7 reached out to the state for inspection reports, and were told an open records request would have to be made.
The Big El Paso Fair will remain open until April, 28.
