09 Jun 2015
17-year-old loses leg after Alton Towers accident
BY Tom Anstey
A 17-year-old-girl – one of five hospitalised after the Smiler crash at Alton Towers – has had to have her leg amputated following the tragic accident on 2 June.
Leah Washington was sitting on the front row of the rollercoaster, which crashed into an empty carriage on the track. Leah had her left leg amputated above the knee and also sustained a fractured left hand.
18-year-old Joe Pugh, who was sitting next to Leah, is being treated for two broken knees and “extensive” hand injuries, while 20-year-old Vicky Balch is in a “serious but stable” condition after undergoing surgery. 27-year-old Daniel Thorpe is also in a “serious but stable” condition with a collapsed lung and a fractured leg, while 49-year-old Chanda Singh has had stomach surgery and is suffering from a damaged liver and blood clots.
In a statement, Alton Towers said it was “deeply saddened” by the news, adding it would provide full support to all involved in the accident throughout their recovery and rehabilitation.
Merlin Entertainments said in a statement that it had carried out "a thorough review" of safety procedures, while the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors are still on site. As part of the ongoing investigation, the park’s X-Sector, which houses the Smiler as well as Enterprise and Oblivion, will remain closed until further notice. The park’s Spinball ride has also been closed at Alton Towers until enhanced safety protocols for the ride are implemented.
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