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Police: No shovel thrown at circus camel that injured 7

Oct 5, 2018 | 1:00 PM

PITTSBURGH — Police say a series of unfortunate events spooked a camel that bucked during an intermission at the Shrine Circus in Pittsburgh, injuring six children and an adult.

The investigation report released by police Friday says no one threw a shovel as was previously reported by witnesses.

Investigators say a carriage seat on the camel loosened during the Sept. 16 show, causing several children to start falling. A handler ran to help and dropped a tool— possibly a shovel— that clattered to the ground.

Authorities say the noise spooked the camel and it began bucking. No charges will be filed related to the accident.