A tragic incident occurred at the Asarigawa Onsen Ski resort in Otaru, Japan where a five-year-old boy lost his life after his arm became entangled in a ski lift. The boy, identified as Hinata Goto, passed away on Sunday morning after falling and getting caught in the ski travelator’s machinery.
Reports suggest that despite safety measures in place, the machine only stopped when the boy’s mother activated the emergency stop. Rescue efforts took 40 minutes to free the unconscious boy, who was then rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Authorities are now investigating the incident to determine if any negligence was involved in the installation or maintenance of the travelator. Staff members at the ski resort stated that the safety mechanism had been functioning properly earlier that day.
The travelator, which was installed approximately six years ago, spans 30 meters in length and 60 centimeters in width. It serves as a connection between the resort’s parking area and the ski slopes, lacking handrails. Known as ‘magic carpet’ lifts, travelator ski lifts are commonly found on beginner slopes, with some visitors previously reporting difficulties using the specific travelator where the tragedy occurred.
In response to the incident, officials expressed their commitment to learning from the tragedy to prevent future occurrences. A representative from Asarigawa Onsen Ski Resort issued an apology and assured the public that steps would be taken to enhance safety measures.
Hokkaido, known as the ski capital of Japan, attracts millions of visitors annually, particularly during the winter season for ski vacations.