DPS stands by its report on fatal ride

The state Department of Public Safety yesterday stood by its findings in a fatal carnival accident after the owners of the ride issued a statement questioning the qualifications of safety officials and calling their performance ''dismal."

Jaro Amusements Inc. released the statement Sunday in response to the department's final report on the Sept. 19 accident at St. Mary's Parish in Shrewsbury, in which a car on the Sizzler ride broke apart, killing one man and injuring two other people.

''This report is a blatant attempt by the DPS to turn the spotlight away from its own shortcomings, and admittedly dismal performance, toward the owner of the Sizzler ride, Jaro Amusements, Inc.," the statement said. ''Jaro has faithfully followed its regulatory obligations with regard to the Sizzler and all of its other rides."