This sounds like a tragic accident. The circus brings children lots of joy in a world that otherwise has its share of dangerous and ugliness. I’m sure the animal rights groups will get bent out of shape over this accident.
But, in my opinion, animals don’t have more rights than people.
From WNEP.com
Officials with the Irem Shrine Circus believe a sparking electrical wire may have spooked an elephant that killed a hander Friday.
An autopsy was done Saturday on the body of handler Andrew Alderton of Florida. The coroner said it showed he died from traumatic injuries. He said those injuries likely came from the elephant kicking or hitting Alderton.
The circus wrapped up its week of performances Saturday night at the 109th Armory in Wilkes-Barre. Four shows scheduled after the incident went on as planned. Dumbo, the elephant involved, did not take part in any of those shows.
There were good crowds at the armory despite the news of the handler's death.
"The kids wanted to come and see it, we're doing it for the kids," said Joe Castaldo of Nanticoke. "My heart goes out to the trainer's family and hopefully it never happens again."
"All my sadness goes out to the person's family that the unfortunate incident happened to," added Thomas Pickering of New Jersey. "But, I feel for the kids it's a great event that I didn't want them to miss."
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating the death.
Via WNEP.com
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