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A frightening accident at Seville’s April Fair has left four people injured, including two children, after a fairground ride cable snapped and sent a capsule crashing mid-ride.

 

The incident happened on Saturday evening at around 8.20pm in the busy amusement area known as Calle del Infierno, or “Street of Hell”, where crowds had gathered to enjoy one of the highlights of the annual festival.

 

Witnesses described scenes of panic as the slingshot-style attraction, called Steel Max, malfunctioned. Onlookers could be heard shouting “My God” as the capsule, carrying two youngsters, struck a side post at speed before being left hanging several feet above the ground.

 

Emergency services responded quickly. A spokesperson confirmed: “Firefighters have cordoned off the Steel Max attraction after an accident that occurred during its operation at 8.20pm. Four people were slightly injured and treated on site, although the two on the ride were later taken to a medical centre.”

 

They added that the area was secured with the help of Civil Protection teams, while Policía Local carried out initial checks. “Policía Nacional are taking charge of the investigation,” the spokesperson said.

 

The ride involved is considered one of the more extreme attractions at the fair, launching a two-person capsule more than 300 feet into the air at speeds of up to 100 mph. Riders are subjected to intense acceleration, reaching forces of up to 5Gs before dropping back down.

 

It remains unclear who the other two injured individuals were, beyond the children who were inside the capsule at the time.

 

The week-long celebration had previously begun with its traditional carriage parade, strong security presence and even a heat warning for visitors.

 

While the fair remains one of Andalucía’s most iconic events, attracting thousands each year, it has also seen other incidents in recent days. In the bullring, leading matador José Antonio Morante Camacho was seriously injured earlier in the week after being gored during a corrida. Speaking afterwards, he said: “The truth is, I’m in a lot of pain,” following hours of surgery.

 

Despite its origins as an agricultural fair dating back to 1847, the event has grown into a major social and cultural gathering, with more than 1,000 casetas where people eat, drink and dance late into the night.

 

The investigation into the ride accident is now ongoing, with safety checks expected to be a priority as the fair continues.

 

 

Image: wikicommons