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Tasmania Police Commissioner Darren Hine has announced an 11-year-old boy, Chace Harrison, died in hospital this afternoon.
“Our thoughts continue to be with his family and all other families and loved ones of the children involved,” the Commissioner said.
Two children remain in a critical condition in the Royal Hobart Hospital, while a third is recovering from injuries at home.
Five children died on Thursday after nine children fell an estimated 10 metres after the jumping castle they were in, along with several inflatable “zorb” balls, were picked up by a powerful gust of wind about 10am.
Close to 40 grade five and six students taking part in the end-of-term activities when the jumping castle accident occurred at Hillcrest Primary School.
Commissioner Hine said Tasmania police had accepted an offer from NSW police for help interviewing the many child witnesses as they investigate the tragedy.
“We are working tirelessly with all parties concerned to ensure the extensive investigation is completed as a matter of priority for the Coroner,” he said.
Commissioner Hine said it was a priority to interview witnesses and to gather and analyse forensic evidence and all environmental aspects, including weather patterns and conditions at the time of the incident.
A regional support committee has been established to provide assistance to everyone directly affected.
Premier Peter Gutwein said he spoke for all Tasmanians when he said the community would stand with the children’s families.
“My heart goes out to everyone impacted by this tragic event,” he said.
“We will continue to provide whatever support we can to all of those directly impacted, the students, staff, broader community.”
He thanked everyone providing support to those close to the tragedy.
“From Devonport to our Tasmania, across Australia and indeed right across the world, thank you all for your support and is very sad time,” he said.
Readers seeking support can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyond blue on 1300 22 4636.
Source: 9News
