Last Saturday, a sudden debacle unfolded at the Kendall County Fairgrounds when part of the bleachers at the rodeo arena gave way, injuring several attendees. According to My Boerne News, the collapse occurred around 9:17 p.m., prompting immediate response from local emergency crews. The incident left a dozen people injured, with four quick-acting at the scene and eight necessitating hospital care.
The fair, an annual staple for the community, was promptly shut down for the night, and the following day's rodeo was canceled—highlighting the severity of the accident. The fairgrounds, nestled on River Road, then underwent scrutiny from both the Boerne Fire Marshal’s Office and Permitting and Code Compliance Office. "A more thorough examination by a structural engineer is necessary," as stated on My Boerne News, before the arena could welcome back the public, suggesting an undercurrent of further issues with the bleacher's integrity.
While the rodeo’s absence left a noticeable void in Sunday’s schedule, the fair association conveyed via social media that other activities would proceed, with entertainers, artisans, and the much-anticipated carnival resuming at 2 p.m. The communication aimed to retain a semblance of normalcy amidst the disruption caused by Saturday’s harrowing ordeal.
The local Kendall County Emergency Management, Kendall County EMS, the Sheriff’s Office and Boerne’s Police and Fire Departments were among the various, agencies that coordinated efforts in the wake of the collapse. Additional support came in the form of ambulances from MEDCOM, according to My Boerne News. The exact cause of the collapse remains unclear at this juncture, with officials stating an investigation is "on-going," and promising to release further details as they surface.
