Jess Hardiman
A boy managed to get himself stuck in a claw machine, at an amusement park in North Carolina, after clambering inside in an attempt to steal.
Park officials at Carowinds amusement park in Charlotte, North Carolina, said a 13-year-old boy climbed into a Cosmic XL Bonus Game machine shortly before 2pm yesterday (Sunday 16 April).
Carowinds is a 407-acre amusement park straddling the North Carolina and South Carolina state line, which opened back in 1973.
With 60 ‘world-class rides’, it bills itself as ‘the Carolinas’ premier entertainment destination’, with the ‘best waterpark’ in the area, family-friendly special events, ‘downhome Carolina cuisine’ and more.
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There’s also an on-site hotel and surrounding campground, meaning visitors can turn their day out into a vacation.
According to WSOC-TV, he had entered the contraption in an attempt to steal items, but then got stuck.
Thankfully, he wasn’t in there for too long, thanks to the park’s medical response team, who managed to help the teenager out within around 15 minutes.
Officials said he was then given first aid before being released to his guardian, saying in a statement: “The safety and security of our guests and associates is Carowinds’ top priority.”
After the news broke – and hearing that the youngster made it out safely – many social media users couldn’t help but find photos of the incident nothing short of hilarious.
One person tweeted: “This is NOT a way to get a prize out of a claw machine folks.”
Someone else joked: “How many attempts did it take to claw him out of there?”
A third wrote: “This will likely be my demise. I do love a claw machine.”
Showing a little more sympathy, a fourth added: “Bless him.”
The park recently launched a brand new attraction inspired by the Carolinas’ rich aviation history, the Aeronautica Landing, which features four rides: Air Racers, The Airwalker, Gear Spin and Hover and Dodge.
It says on its website: “As part of the 50th anniversary celebration in 2023, Carowinds launches even more fun things to do in Charlotte with the all-new, all-exciting Aeronautica Landing. Inspired by the spirit of adventure and innovation that made world history in the Carolinas, Aeronautica Landing sets the runway for curiosity and imagination to soar.
“New and reimagined amusement park rides invite thrill seekers and families alike to strap in, buckle-up and test their mettle. Aviation-themed food and beverage destinations offer fun ways to refuel. The Aeronautica Landing Game Zone upgrades classic carnival games with key skills for emerging pilots.”