Wellsburg hayride accident leaves over 12 injured

A hayride accident in Wellsburg, New York, left at least 12 to 14 people injured after a tractor overturned while traveling downhill. The incident occurred on October 4, 2026, during an activity organized by a local German Baptist youth group.

Reports indicate the tractor was traveling at a high rate of speed down a slope when it attempted a right turn, causing the vehicle to roll multiple times. The impact caused approximately 15 passengers, aged between 4 and 19, to be ejected from the wagon. Some passengers reportedly observed smoke coming from the brakes as the vehicle struggled to descend the incline.

The 16-year-old driver was pinned under the tractor and dragged several yards before the vehicle came to a stop against a tree. The teenager remains in critical condition. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the crash, including potential mechanical failures and whether the vehicle was operated at a safe speed for the terrain.