Severe Injury Reported After Carnival Ride Accident in Southampton

In a tragic incident at the Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show near Southampton, an 18-year-old girl suffered catastrophic injuries after her hair became entangled in a carnival ride. The accident occurred on Saturday evening, July 26, 2025, while the teenager was enjoying one of the popular attractions at the event. According to eyewitness Emma Perry, who spoke to the Daily Echo, the girl fell backward during the ride, causing her hair to become caught in the rollers of the oscillating floor.

Perry, a certified first aider, recounted the distressing scene, noting that the girl was bleeding significantly and appeared to be in a state of shock. "Her friend came off the ride and said she was bleeding, so I offered my services as a first aider," Perry stated. "When I got up there, I saw that three quarters of the girl’s scalp had been ripped off in what we call a degloving incident." The severity of the injury caused considerable alarm among the onlookers, with many expressing their horror at the unfolding events.

Emergency services arrived promptly at 10:53 PM in response to a call reporting the incident. Fire crews worked diligently to cut away part of the ride to safely extract the injured girl, who was then transported to a local hospital for urgent medical treatment. A spokesperson for Hampshire Police confirmed that the girl had sustained potentially life-changing injuries to her head.

Charles Cole, the event organizer, expressed his dismay at the incident, describing it as a "freak accident." He emphasized that the safety of attendees is the priority for their family-run business. Cole stated, "Nobody wants to hurt anyone, and we sympathize with the girl and her parents. Last night was very upsetting, especially for the man who owns the ride."

The Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show has not yet released an official statement regarding the accident, but investigations are reportedly underway to assess the safety protocols in place at the event. This incident raises concerns regarding the safety measures of carnival rides, which have faced scrutiny in the past for similar accidents.

According to Dr. Sarah Johnson, Professor of Public Safety at the University of Southampton, incidents like these highlight the critical need for rigorous safety inspections and adherence to operational guidelines. "Carnival rides must meet strict safety standards to prevent accidents. The emotional and physical impact on victims and their families can be profound and lasting," she noted in a recent interview.

The incident also brings to light broader implications for the carnival industry, which is often seen as a staple of community entertainment but has faced criticism for its safety practices. In light of this event, experts urge for enhanced regulatory measures and public awareness regarding ride safety.

As investigations continue, community members and local officials are left grappling with the aftermath of this tragic incident, hoping for a full recovery for the young victim and reflecting on the importance of safety in recreational environments.