A New Year’s Eve celebration at a Massachusetts arcade took a frightening turn when a Lego display holding balloons for a drop collapsed, injuring multiple people. The Peabody Police Department confirmed that the incident occurred at the In the Game arcade in Peabody during a “Noon Year’s Eve celebration.” Peabody Fire Chief John Dowling explained that they received a call regarding a partial ceiling collapse at the arcade, but upon arrival, they discovered that it was actually a display of Legos that had collapsed onto a group of people during the balloon drop. Dowling stated that the balloons were meant to be released from the display during the party, and it appeared that someone pulled too hard on the display, causing it to fall over.
A total of 10 individuals sustained minor injuries as a result of the incident, with eight being transported to the hospital for treatment while two refused medical transport. Of the eight who sought treatment, three were adults and five were children, with most injuries being cuts and scrapes. Witnesses at the event described the scene as chaotic, with large Lego pieces scattered everywhere and children crying. The arcade was briefly closed as a precaution after the incident but reopened shortly afterward. A spokesperson for the arcade mentioned that they are cooperating with authorities as the situation is being investigated.
Lawren Turco, who was present at the event with her family, explained that they watched the balloon drop without realizing that anything had happened until they were about to leave. Turco described the aftermath as pure chaos, with people trying to collect Lego pieces as souvenirs and individuals with ice packs on their heads. The incident was a frightening interruption to what was supposed to be a festive New Year’s Eve celebration for families at the arcade. The spokesperson for the arcade mentioned that they take the safety and well-being of their guests seriously and are working to address the situation with authorities.
The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers that can arise in crowded public spaces, especially during events that involve special displays or activities. Despite the chaos that ensued, it is fortunate that the injuries sustained were relatively minor, and most of the individuals affected were able to receive medical treatment promptly. The reopening of the arcade shortly after the incident indicates that authorities deemed it safe for guests to return, suggesting that the necessary precautions have been taken to prevent a similar occurrence from happening in the future. It is essential for establishments to prioritize safety measures and conduct thorough assessments of their displays and attractions to ensure the well-being of their patrons.
As authorities continue to investigate the incident, it is crucial for the arcade and all parties involved to address any potential safety issues or oversights that may have led to the collapse of the Lego display. By working closely with authorities and taking proactive steps to enhance safety protocols, the arcade can reassure guests that their well-being is a top priority. Moving forward, it is important for establishments hosting events or activities to carefully evaluate the structural integrity of their displays and thoroughly train staff members on proper handling procedures to prevent accidents or mishaps. Despite the unfortunate turn of events on New Year’s Eve, the incident can serve as a valuable lesson in prioritizing safety and diligence in ensuring the well-being of guests in public spaces.
