Boy injured on Butte carnival ride in serious condition; family gives thanks for support

The family of the 13-year-old boy injured on a carnival ride Sunday in Butte released a statement through Sheriff Ed Lester on Tuesday saying the boy is in serious condition but stable at an area hospital, and that they appreciate the outpouring of support from the community.

The boy, who has not been identified, suffered serious injuries after falling from the Yo-Yo carnival ride in a parking lot near the Butte Civic Center on Sunday just after 3 p.m.

“While there has been much speculation about this situation, he is currently in serious but stable condition in an area hospital, and we cannot be more grateful of the care he has and continues to receive from all healthcare and first response professionals involved," the family said in the statement.

“The outpouring of love, support, and well-wishes has been tremendous, and tremendously comforting and strengthening to us all. As appropriate, we will update his progress, though we ask for privacy and that all speculations related to this incident be reserved. Immediate family members are well supported, and proper arrangements have been made to remain at his side as he continues to recover.”

The family thanked people who have reached out to them, saying they are “leaning on those with every ounce of support.”

“Your continued prayers and well wishes are the most important need at this time,” the family’s statement concluded.

The carnival ride was immediately shut down and roped off while police and others investigated. The remainder of the rides were closed down as a precaution, Lester said. Officers were still at the scene on Monday morning investigating, but officials have not released further details about what may have transpired.