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The Grand Rapids Police Department is investigating an incident where rides at the WestFest carnival were vandalized, including the festival’s two most popular rides, the Top Gun and Super Nova 360. Vandals reportedly ripped out operating wires and control boxes, rendering several rides inoperable. The WestFest carnival, operated by Skerbeck Entertainment, is a school fundraiser for Sacred Heart Academy and has been a yearly event for a decade.
Vandalism at WestFest Carnival Results in Damaged Rides
The Grand Rapids Police Department is presently investigating vandalism at the WestFest carnival that resulted in damaged rides. The WestFest carnival has been a traditional school fundraiser for Sacred Heart Academy for the past decade, held at John Ball Park.
Among the vandalized facilities were the Top Gun and the Super Nova 360, the festival’s star attractions. The vandals damaged the operating wires and control boxes of several rides, making them inoperable. The organizers discovered the destruction late Friday night and immediately contacted the Grand Rapids Police.
Amber Hiske, director of strategic advancement at Sacred Heart Academy, expressed her hope for the return of the control boxes to allow the rides to resume. “This is especially disappointing as we expected high attendance this year due to the great weather. Despite the vandalism, we hope the community will continue to support our school fundraiser,” said Hiske.
The undamaged carnival rides have undergone thorough safety inspections. The WestFest carnival, managed by Skerbeck Entertainment in the green space at John Ball Park, features a variety of rides, games, and concessions. It will remain open until 10 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday.
The Grand Rapids Police Department encourages anyone with information about this incident to get in touch. Their involvement will be crucial in helping to resolve this regrettable occurrence that has impacted the operation of the long-standing, community-supported event.
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