Five children died, and four others were in critical condition after a freak tragic accident at Australian school.
Pupils were taking part in end-of-term celebrations ahead of Christmas holidays when a freak gust of wind blew a bouncy castle 30ft in the air, dragging children with it.
The accident occurred at the school sports field during a party around 10am on Thursday.
All the victims of the tragic accudent aged between 10 and 12.
Four others of the same age are currently in hospital in critical condition, with a fifth ‘seriously’ hurt.
“A wind gust had reportedly caused the jumping castle and inflatable balls to lift into the air,” Tasmanian Police Commissioner Darren Hine said.
“Our hearts are breaking for the families and the loved ones, schoolmates, teachers of these young people who were taken too soon.”
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the accident as “unthinkably heartbreaking”.
“Young children on a fun day out… and it turns to such horrific tragedy. At this time of the year, it just breaks your heart,” he said.
However, one parent said the school had previously installed such floats on similar occasions with no problems.
A coroner’s investigation was under way, police said.
