Hato Mayor: 11-year-old girl dies after mechanical ride accident

An 11-year-old girl, identified as Liranyi Reyes Puello, has died following a mechanical ride accident during the patronal festivities in Hato Mayor, Dominican Republic. The incident occurred on Friday, September 18, when a support on the attraction known as ‘La Estrellita’ or ‘Estrellitas’ detached, causing three minors to fall several meters onto the pavement.

The victim had been receiving intensive care at the Dr. Hugo Mendoza Pediatric Hospital in Santo Domingo. Medical reports indicated she suffered severe traumatic brain injury, skull fractures, and cerebral hemorrhage, requiring two neurosurgeries. Her 13-year-old sister, who was also injured in the fall, was discharged on September 24 after a favorable recovery, while a third minor sustained only minor injuries.

Following the tragedy, the Mayor's Office of Hato Mayor del Rey and the Organizing Committee suspended all scheduled festivities for September 26 and 27 as a sign of respect. Authorities have closed the mechanical park, and the owner remains in custody. Police and the Public Ministry are continuing investigations into the structural integrity of the rides and the responsibilities of the operators.