Cast Member Working on Animal Kingdom Ride Dies

A 52-year-old Disney cast member working on the Animal Kingdom's Primeval Whirl ride died on Monday. Russell Sherry Roscoe of Webster, Florida, sustained head injuries when he was struck by one of the ride's moving vehichles and later died at an area hospital.

Walt Disney World President Meg Crofton said in a statement released Monday:

"Our Walt Disney World community has experienced a tragic loss. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Russ Roscoe's family and we are working to assist them during this difficult time; our thoughts and our prayers are with them.

There is no higher priority than the safety of our cast and our guests, and we will work with authorities to thoroughly review every aspect of this incident."

Mr. Roscoe's death is the second related to the Primeval Whirl. Karen Price died in November 2007, after being hit by ride vehicle. After her death, Disney installed sensors on the ride to help prevent such accidents from happening.

At present, OSHA is investigating Mr. Roscoe's death.

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