A carnival ride worker has died after being struck in the head by moving ride machinery Saturday, officials say.
Austin Michael, 22, was knocked to the ground at the Feast of Mother Cabrini Festival Saturday night by a ride called Scat, a where revelers stand against a wall in two rotating baskets. About 16 people were on the ride at the time, but no other injuries were reported.
Michael was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital, where he died, officials say.
A spokeswoman for the carnival ride operator, Zorlenzan Amusements, said the ride was immediately shut down following the incident. Inspectors from the state Labor Department examined the equipment and determined the ride was operating correctly.
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The ride Scat will remain closed for the rest of the festival out of respect for Austin, the spokeswoman said.
Newsday reported that Austin, from the Mastic-Shirley area, started about three weeks ago at his job. He had reached under the ride, possibly to change the music, and was struck.
The festival in Brentwood ends on Monday.
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