A 52-year-old Serbian security guard has died at Munich's Oktoberfest after being struck by the 'Hangover' free-fall fairground ride on Monday evening. The 250-foot tall attraction crushed him when it swung downwards at approximately 10pm; the guard was standing in a restricted area at the time. The incident resulted in no other casualties, and police have launched an investigation whilst appealing for witnesses. The death marks a tragedy during the world-famous beer festival, which is one of the largest public gatherings in Germany.

The accident occurred during the 191st edition of Oktoberfest, which runs for 16 days through 4 October and expects around six million visitors. Enhanced security measures have been implemented this year following last year's temporary closure due to overcrowding, including AI-powered crowd-detection cameras, entry checks, and bans on knives and drones. Approximately 600 police officers are deployed around the festival grounds alongside Bavarian riot police, specialist investigators, and international task forces from eight countries. Munich's mayor offered condolences to the deceased's family and commended emergency services for their swift response.