Mayor closes carnival for weekend after ride caused injuries

The carnival closed after 6 people sustained minor injuries when the “Cyclone Swing” ride tipped over.

Oak Harbor shut down the Fourth of July carnival over the weekend after six people sustained minor injuries when the “Cyclone Swing” ride tipped over, according to a city press release.

The injured people were treated at the scene and released. The incident made regional headlines. In a video circulated online, a loud squeaking noise preceded the ride falling over.

In light of the event, Oak Harbor Mayor Ronnie Wright decided to shut down the carnival for the remainder of the holiday weekend, but the parade and fireworks kept the community entertained, the city reported.

A city press release states that the decision to close the carnival was made with “the utmost consideration for the safety and well-being of our community.”

“Ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority,” Wright said. “After careful deliberation and consultation with law enforcement and city officials, it became that this was the best course of action to protect our community.”

The city reported that maintaining a safe and secure environment for residents is the top priority.

“We understand the disappointment this may cause, especially for families and individuals who were looking forward to the festivities,” the press release states. “However, the safety of our community members takes precedence.”

The city reported that the producers of the carnival, the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce, will release a statement to the public.

The Independence Day parade, vendor booths, entertainment, beer garden, and the Whidbey Wags Pet Parade will be moving forward as planned. Visit oakharborchamber.com for a schedule of events.