Tragedy unfolded at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, as a longtime employee faced a deadly accident in a nondescript part of the amusement park. Bonnye Mavis Lear, a committed staff member of Disney for 24 years, succumbed to severe head injuries following a fall from a moving golf cart.
Fatal Fall From a Moving Cart
The unfortunate incident took place while Lear, 60, was a passenger in a golf cart that was cruising at about 20 miles per hour. Disney resorts tragic mishap stemmed from a sudden jolt when the cart hit a minor dip or a bump in the road. Lear, in an attempt to hold herself steady, grabbed a handrail that consequently gave way, sending her flying off the moving vehicle. This abrupt fall led to a devastating strike to her head and an eventual skull fracture, leading to tragic brain swelling. These details were shared by Lear’s colleague Rae Delgado on a Facebook post, as cited by The Orange County Register.
A Dedicated Disney Employee
Lear, hailing from Fullerton, was known for her dedication and commitment to her work at Disney. Most recently, she was an administrative staff member supporting membership services at Club 33 in New Orleans Square at the Disneyland Resort.
Emergency Response and Tragic Aftermath
The Anaheim police along with other first responders were called to the scene at around 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday following the harrowing golf cart accident. “The woman, a Disneyland employee, fell from a moving golf cart and struck her head,” reported Anaheim Police Sgt. Jon McClintock to the Daily News in an email.
Lear was hurriedly transported to a local hospital in a critical, grave condition. However, unfortunately, two days after her heart-wrenching accident, on Friday, June 7, Lear succumbed to her severe head injuries.
Investigation and Disney’s Response
As expected, the driver of the golf cart was unharmed, and reports confirmed that the accident did not involve drugs or alcohol. Currently, an investigation by the Anaheim Police Department is underway, focusing both on the accident and Lear’s untimely demise.
Disney, mourning the loss of one of their longstanding employees, expressed their grief but held back from making further comments. Disneyland Resort president, Ken Potrock, issued a statement offering condolences. “We are heartbroken by the loss of Bonnye. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go to everyone who knew and cared for her,” said Potrock.
Final Thoughts
This tragic incident sends a grim reminder of the importance of safety, even in seemingly safe spaces like amusement parks. It underlines the need for strict adherence to safety regulations, maintenance checks, and efficient emergency responses.
While no amusement park is fully immune to the odd accident, many will be watching to see how Disney handles the aftermath of this tragic incident. Investigations are ongoing, and as more information becomes available, it’ll be essential to recognize and address potential safety lapses to avoid such tragedies in the future.