Four hurt when car at Potosi demolition derby goes into audience

POTOSI, Mo. (AP) -- A demolition derby car hit four spectators during an event this weekend, leading to injuries that were not life-threatening.

Rose Mary Skaggs, 62, suffered a broken leg and cuts to her hips and thighs when a car went into the audience at Saturday night's event.

Her son, David Skaggs, saw the derby vehicle hit his mother and three others. "A car shoved this car up on the banks, then he backed up and took another run at it and shoved it into the audience."

It was the 15th year for the demolition derby in Potosi, and the first time it has ever had such an accident.

"It's an unforeseen accident. We're very sorry it happened," said Randy Eaton, a board member of the Potosi Fire Protection District. "Our prayers go out to everyone involved."

Eaton said the car was probably going three to five mph when it was shoved into the audience.

The demolition derby raises $5,000 to $7,000 each year to buy rescue equipment for the fire protection district, but Skaggs says it's not worth it. "I think they should shut it down."

Organizers plan to review what happened and decide what changes need to be made.

Three others who were hurt were released from hospitals in Potosi and St. Louis.

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Information from: KSDK-TV, http://www.ksdk.com