Lightning Injures 12 At Fair SOUTH WINDSOR Twelve people were injured when lightning hit a pole Saturday afternoon at the Wapping Fair, sending a powerful jolt through the fair's electrical system. None of the injuries was considered serious, but six people were taken to local hospitals by ambulance after complaining of numbness, nausea and chest discomfort, officials and witnesses said. The lightning strike came around 2 p.m. in the midst of a heavy rain. When the utility pole was struck, a surge of electricity went through the electrical system of the fairgrounds in Rye Street Park. Although the carnival rides and people on them were not affected, witnesses said several people were jolted while leaning against metal railings or sitting on metal chairs. In addition to the six people treated at area hospitals, six other fair-goers were treated at the scene or were checked and declined further treatment, police said. The fair was closed temporarily so the fire marshal and electrical specialists could check the system.
