RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — The Georgia company authorities have described as owning the thrill ride that seriously injured three at the North Carolina State Fair is now trying to distance itself from the case and potentially shield itself from lawsuits.

A lawyer for Family Attractions Amusements, LCC, sent a letter to state officials last month asserting that the Valdosta, Ga., company and owners Dominic and Ruby Macaroni have no connection to the Vortex ride involved in the Oct. 24 problem that injured members of a Raleigh family.