WALDORF, MD – On Friday night in Maryland, a bounce house was lifted off the ground by a gust of wind- leading to the death of one child and injuries to another. The incident took place at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf during a baseball game between the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs and the York Revolution.
Around 9:21 p.m., the bounce house, situated in the right field stands of the stadium, was suddenly lifted 15 to 20 feet into the air by a strong gust of wind. The two children playing inside fell from the bounce house before it landed on the field, the Charles County officials stated.
Emergency medical services were already present at the stadium and promptly administered aid to the children, along with trainers from the baseball team and several attending volunteer first responders. The 5-year-old boy, hailing from La Plata, Maryland, was rushed to Children’s Hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries later that night. Officials have not yet released the identity of the victim.
The second affected child suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to a hospital for treatment.
Expressing his condolences, Charles County Government Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins stated, “We extend our deepest empathy to the children and their families during this difficult time.” He also extended his appreciation for the immediate medical care provided by the EMS team and the Maryland State Police.
In response to the tragedy, the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs canceled Saturday’s game. The organization is also offering counseling and support to families, players, and fans who were present during the incident.