Leipzig, Germany, experienced another disaster on August 18, 2024, when a fire erupted on a Ferris wheel, engulfing two gondolas.
The blaze began in one gondola and quickly spread to another, causing them to spin uncontrollably.
“We were about 100 to 150 meters away, heading to a concert when we saw the Ferris wheel ablaze and some people still inside,” an eyewitness recounted. “It was a chaotic sight. The Ferris wheel started spinning wildly while it was on fire and people were trapped inside. It was a harrowing scene.”
At least 23 people were injured in the incident.
Police officials reported that first responders, including four officers, were hospitalized for potential smoke inhalation, but their injuries are believed to be minor.
Leipzig police spokesperson Josephin Sader stated, “There is currently no information about the cause of the fire. Criminal investigators are on-site, and an arson investigator will be summoned. The affected area has been cordoned off for investigation.”
The fire began around 9 p.m. local time during the Indie-Rock Highfield Festival in eastern Germany. The festival, attended by 30,000 people, was abruptly disrupted by the fire, which has left attendees and organizers in shock.
