By CESAR JOLITO III

Seven individuals, including three minors, sustained minor injuries after a horror train ride overturned at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) grounds on Sunday night, October 13.

Police Station 4 commander, Major Marc Joel Reclamado, said around 10 people were on board the moving attraction when it lost balance and toppled over.

Initial investigation revealed that the incident occurred when several riders panicked and allegedly jumped off the train out of fear, causing it to go off balance.

The victims, who suffered minor injuries, were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Reclamado added that there were no prior reports of mechanical malfunction or defects in the ride before the incident happened.

Following the incident, Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya ordered the City Engineer’s Office (CEO) to conduct an inspection of all carnival rides operating within the city.

Gasataya said he has directed the CEO to inspect the carnival located behind the BCGC as well as those at the Reclamation Area to ensure that all rides are safe for the public.

He also coordinated with the mechanical division of the CEO and the MassKara Festival organizer, Gugma Foundation Inc. regarding the matter.

Gasataya called the attention of the operator and owner of the carnival behind the BCGC, ordering them to submit an incident report.

He has also ordered the temporary suspension of the carnival’s operations until the operator and owner have submitted their explanation and the CEO completes its inspection.

Authorities are currently working with event organizers to ensure strict compliance with safety regulations for all carnival rides operating within the BCGC area as part of the ongoing activities for MassKara./CJ, WDJ