A three-year-old girl has tragically died after a bouncy castle was lifted into the air by strong winds during a community event in Montreal.
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The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon in the city's LaSalle borough, where wind gusts of up to 50 km/h were reported, according to Environment Canada.
Toddler Dies After Bouncy Castle Is Swept Away by Strong Winds
The toddler has been identified as Ava Ciampini by her father, Luca Ciampini.
The incident happened at Ouellette Park at around 4:30 p.m., where Madre Dei Cristiani Church was hosting a community celebration.
According to witnesses, a sudden gust of wind lifted the inflatable structure and carried it several metres through the air.
"All of a sudden, we see this dark cloud coming towards us," Rosella Peluzzo, who was in attendance, told CTV News. "A lot of wind came towards here, chairs started flying, tables started flying. I see the inflated house, and it went up high, at least 40 feet, I would say. It was just turning up in the air."
Eleven people were injured in the incident, including seven adults and four children. Six of those injured were transported to hospital for treatment.
"We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family and all those affected," wrote Quebec's coroner's office spokesperson Jake Lamotta Granato.
LaSalle Mayor Nancy Blanchet said on Monday that she is seeking further information about the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
"Our entire community is deeply shaken by this serious accident," she wrote in a statement.
Multiple Investigations Launched Following Tragic Incident
Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante and Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette have also spoken out following the incident, offering their condolences to Ava's family and loved ones.
"No parent should ever have to endure the loss of a child," she said. "My thoughts also go out to the LaSalle community, Mayor Nancy Blanchet, the first responders, as well as the entire medical staff who were called upon to intervene."
Several investigations have now been launched in the wake of the tragedy.
Coroner Martine Lachance has been appointed to investigate the causes and circumstances surrounding the child's death.
Once the investigation is complete, the coroner may issue recommendations aimed at preventing similar deaths in the future.
Montreal police confirmed on Tuesday that they have also opened an investigation. They will examine whether all required safety measures were properly followed.
