A man has died from injuries he sustained at a carnival Tuesday night in Prince Rupert, B.C.
Police and paramedics responded to a report of an injured worker at the Prince Rupert Summer Carnival at approximately 10:40 p.m., according to a spokesperson for B.C.’s North District RCMP.
First responders located the man unconscious near one of the rides, Cpl. Madonna Saunderson said.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics, the man was later pronounced deceased.
The B.C. Coroners Service is leading the death investigation with assistance from police and WorkSafeBC, Saunderson said Wednesday, adding the man’s death is not considered suspicious.
The death occurred on the opening day of the three-day summer carnival on the grounds of the city’s civic centre.
The City of Prince Rupert said Wednesday it is “deeply saddened” by the fatal incident.
“Our hearts go out to their family, friends, and coworkers during this incredibly difficult time,” the city said in a statement.
“We know that this loss is felt beyond those closest to the individual, and that many in our community may be struggling in the aftermath.”
City support staff and victim services counsellors will be available from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the civic centre auditorium to assist anyone, including fellow carnival employees, who might be affected by the incident.
The city said the carnival area has been cordoned off while investigations into the incident are underway.
“Please respect all barricades in place while this work is ongoing,” the statement said.
Carnival operator Shooting Star Amusements says the carnival will remain closed Wednesday and Thursday, with refunds available for those who have already purchased tickets.
A statement posted to the amusement company’s social media accounts says the worker who was killed was “a dear close friend” and a “great man.”
The Mission, B.C.-based company operates carnivals throughout the province, with similar events this month in Kelowna, Penticton, Abbotsford and Bulkley Valley.
Technical Safety BC, the agency that licenses amusement equipment operators in the province, says it has launched its own investigation into the circumstances of the fatality.
“We will be working with other agencies to determine the cause of this incident,” the organization said in a statement, adding more information would be released once the inquiry is complete.
“Our condolences go out to the friends and loved ones of the person who lost their life.”