Red River Ex carries on after serious midway accident

Thrill-seekers continue to line up to take on the rides at the Red River Ex, despite an accident that seriously injured an employee over the weekend.

Christopher Briers, 31, an employee of North American Midway Entertainment, was working in a restricted area of the Crazy Mouse roller-coaster on Saturday when he was struck in the head.

Passengers waited on the ride for about 10 minutes while emergency workers tended to Briers, who was taken to hospital in critical condition.

The ride then shut down while provincial health and safety inspectors investigated. It reopened after a few hours.

Tony Diaz, a manager with the midway company, said he started an investigation immediately after the accident and is co-operating with Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health.

"We're a very big company, and we take pride in what we do," he told CBC News. "We take pride in our safety record with our equipment and also with the training of our employees."

Red River Ex CEO Paul Robson said he is also examining the incident to ensure similar situations don't happen in the future.

'Not overly concerned'

The accident did not seem to dampen the enthusiasm of thrill-seekers at the Ex.

"I guess that would be a workplace safety issue," said Robin Penner, standing in front of the Crazy Mouse.

"I think, overall, if you think of the amount of people they put through on a daily basis, I think it's a pretty safe way to spend your day."

Shelly Lamothe wasn't planning to ride the roller-coaster, but not because it isn't safe.

"I don't go on any rides. My kids do," she said. "I'm not overly concerned. If I was, I wouldn't be here."

The Red River Exhibition remains open daily until June 25.