Witness to Birmingham’s Star Flyer ride ‘collapse’ shares chilling 13-word account

A terrified onlooker has recounted the horrifying moment a fairground ride “collapsed” in city centre, resulting in two people being rushed to . The incident occurred on the Star Flyer ride in Centenary Square, close to the iconic Library of Birmingham.

A total of eleven individuals were treated at the scene by One shocked witness described the terrifying scene: “It was all the way up there and it fell, the thing fell”. His comments were captured in a video that also shows members of the public rushing to free those trapped in the “collapsed” structure. A woman can be heard saying: “The ambulance is on its way,” as bystanders react in shock.

Emergency services arrived shortly after. The two individuals taken to Midland Metropolitan University Hospital in Smethwick, West Midlands, are not believed to have sustained serious injuries, while the remaining casualties were discharged at the scene.

However, footage published by appears to show wires from two of the swings tangled up, with reports of one bystander noting there was “blood on someone’s face”, reports

A significant police boundary was maintained at the site overnight, with officials pleading for the public to keep their distance, assuring that there were no grave casualties. A representative from West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service reported: “This incident involved a fairground ride that had failed and crashed. The ride dropped to ground level whilst in operation.”

Post-event, Birmingham City Council released a statement expressing: “We’re aware of the incident in Centenary Square. Our thoughts are with those who have been injured and wish them a speedy recovery. Our emergency planning officers are the scene to support emergency services if required.”

Danter Attractions, who manage the ride, declined to comment when contacted about the incident.

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