On this day: May 23

Wrestler Dies After Receiving Own Finishing Move During 1999 Match

On May 23, 1999, a professional wrestler collapsed and died in the ring after being struck by his trademark finishing move during a live match; the incident was ruled a tragic in-ring medical emergency.

Fatal Roller Coaster Collapse at New York’s Luna Park, May 23, 1912

On May 23, 1912, a catastrophic structural failure on a wooden attraction at Luna Park, Coney Island, killed and injured riders, marking one of the first widely reported fatal accidents on a modern amusement-park thrill ride and prompting debate about ride safety and oversight.

First Public Demonstration of Night-Vision Goggles, May 23, 1939

On 23 May 1939, British company A.P. (later EMI) publicly demonstrated an infrared night-vision device—an early precursor to modern night-vision goggles—showing active infrared illumination and electronic pickup for low-light observation.