SEATTLE (AP) — A family injured in a Ferris wheel incident in Port Townsend has filed a lawsuit against the ride’s operator.
KING5-TV reported Monday that 59-year-old Shawn Swartwood, her partner, 47-year-old Crystal Groth, and their seven-year-old son were all hurt May 18 during the Rhododendron Festival when a Ferris wheel gondola tipped over.
Swartwood’s injuries were the most severe, as she suffered facial fractures and two broken ankles.
Attorney Ashton Dennis, who represents the family, said she is still healing and dealing with limited mobility.
The lawsuit filed against Portland-based Funtastic seeks damages for pain and suffering plus medical expenses and lost income.
Funtastic’s attorney Pat Buchanan, however, says the ride was being operated safely. He says the incident happened when the family stood up in the gondola.