RCMP say a man has died after being found unconscious at the Prince Rupert Summer Carnival on Tuesday night.
In a Facebook post, the Mission-based Shooting Star Amusements, which operates the carnival in northwestern B.C., identified the man as a worker, adding he was also a “dear close friend” and a “great man.”
Police say they responded around 10:40 p.m. PT to a report of an injured man at the event. The man was found near one of the rides and was later pronounced dead.
Prince Rupert RCMP say they are investigating and WorkSafeBC and the B.C. Coroners Service have also been called in.
Photos taken Wednesday morning show the incident happened near the carnival’s thrill ride known as the Zipper.
Shooting Star Amusements says the carnival will not open in Prince Rupert on Wednesday or Thursday and refunds will be offered for online purchases that have not yet been used.
The carnival opened in the town on Tuesday.
In a statement Wednesday morning, the City of Prince Rupert said it is “deeply saddened” by the fatal incident.
“Our hearts go out to their family, friends, and coworkers during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement reads. “We know that this loss is felt beyond those closest to the individual, and that many in our community may be struggling in the aftermath.”
Victim services counsellors will be available Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Civic Centre auditorium to provide support to anyone directly affected, including carnival employees.
The city says investigations are underway and the area has been cordoned off. It’s asking residents to respect all barricades in place while that work continues.
