Whether they live
five minutes away or are tourists on vacation, people love amusement parks. They
just don’t expect their lives to be hanging in the balance when they visit one.
But that’s exactly
what happened at a Portland, Oregon, amusement park and on a ride called AtmosFEAR.
The ride malfunctioned and simply stopped, stranding
more than two dozen riders hanging upside down until they could be rescued.
The incident
happened at an amusement park called Oaks Park. Portland
firefighters brought all 28 suspended riders to safety.
"One
rider with pre-existing medical conditions was transported to the hospital for
further evaluation, out of an abundance of caution," Oaks Park said.
"I
was excited to go on," teenager Daniel Allen
said. "When you get stuck up there, I don't think you're so excited
anymore."
The ride is like a
pendulum and is designed to stop, but only for a few seconds. Oaks Park said
the ride has been opened for three years, and this is the first time it has
malfunctioned.
The park was
closed for a day, and the ride itself has been shut down indefinitely until
state inspectors can get a look. Anyone who had their visit cut short will be
fully refunded.
Oaks
Park said, "We wish to express our deepest appreciation to the first
responders and our staff for taking prompt action, leading to a positive
outcome today, and to the rest of the park guests who swiftly followed
directions to vacate the park to make way for the emergency responders to
attend to the situation. Most of all, we are thankful that the riders are safe
and with their families."
Thrill rides are a
big attraction, so much so that even cruise
lines are getting in on the action.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
