Harvest Homecoming drops amusement rides, updates security after 2024 shooting

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (WDRB) -- Big changes continue to roll in for this year's Harvest Homecoming Festival.

Organizers announced Thursday there will not be any rides.

"It makes me angry," New Albany resident Kimberly Payne said. "To take away from the children, I think is horrific."

Many generations have fond memories of family fun and fair food from Harvest Homecoming, an annual fall event New Albany residents and neighbors rarely miss.

But after last year's festivities were overshadowed by a shooting near the ride area that killed 18-year-old Bryce Gerlach and injured two other people, some feel differently about going back.

Police believe all three victims were innocent bystanders who weren't related to an argument between two groups of people that ultimately led to the shooting.

"I'm not sure how people are going to feel going this year," Debbie Dennison said. "It may take time, to be honest. Safety is huge for everybody. Nobody wants to come and feel threatened."

In a social media post Thursday morning, the festival committee said there won't be any rides. The post goes on to say the event will still highlight food, live entertainment and family-friendly activities "that reflect the spirit of our community."

"A lot of people just go for the food and to walk around and look at everything," Dennison said. "So that's definitely not a bad idea."

However, Payne believes taking away the rides "is not going to help." She grew up coming to Harvest Homecoming, and has two grandchildren who were looking forward to riding the Ferris Wheel.

"Now, there's not going to be no rides here for them," she said. "I will not be coming back to the Harvest Homecoming. You're taking away from the children. So what's the purpose of coming? When I was a kid, there was just so many booths and the rides."

The change comes as organizers work to make the festival safer.

 New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey sent WDRB the following statement:

"The City of New Albany and New Albany Police Department are committed to safety and security of all staff and visitors to our community’s annual festival. This year we are providing additional resources including more police, physical security measures and surveillance devices to ensure the events are enjoyed by all who attend."