Lego Display Collapse Injures 10 at Massachusetts 'Noon Year's Eve' Celebration
Five children and three adults hospitalized after arcade celebration mishap in Peabody, Massachusetts.
A festive "Noon Year's Eve" celebration turned chaotic when a large Lego display collapsed during a balloon drop at the In the Game amusement center in Peabody, Massachusetts. The incident, which occurred just after noon on New Year’s Eve, left 10 people injured, including five children.
The Peabody Fire Department responded quickly to the indoor arcade after reports of the collapse. Deputy Fire Chief Dan Dean stated that the Lego display, designed to resemble an arcade machine, appeared to be connected to the netting holding the balloons. When the balloons were released, the display toppled, landing on several patrons beneath it.
Among the injured, three adults and five children were transported to a local medical facility for treatment. Injuries ranged from minor bruises to more serious concerns, including a woman who required a cervical collar for neck support. Two additional individuals declined medical attention at the scene.
The "Noon Year’s Eve" party had been advertised as a family-friendly alternative to midnight celebrations and was sold out, according to the In the Game website. While the exact number of attendees at the time of the incident is unclear, the event was expected to draw a substantial crowd.
Neither the management of In the Game nor event organizers have commented on the accident. The incident has raised questions about the safety protocols in place for large-scale displays at public events.
Peabody is located just two miles east of Salem, Massachusetts, and the arcade is a popular destination for families in the area. As investigations into the incident continue, patrons are urged to remain cautious at crowded events where temporary displays or installations are present.
The mishap serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of proper structural assessments, especially for interactive displays at family-oriented venues. Local authorities have not disclosed whether an official investigation into the collapse will be launched.
As the injured recover, the community is rallying around the affected families, with many expressing concerns about preventing similar incidents in the future.