PORTLAND, Oregon – Guests at Oregon’s Oaks Park amusement park had a harrowing experience on Friday when a ride malfunctioned, leaving approximately 30 people hanging upside down. The incident occurred on the park’s first day of opening for the summer season.
Video footage captured by a park-goer showed the riders suspended vertically on the “AtmosFEAR” ride, as park employees and fire officials worked to manually lower the ride and evacuate the trapped guests. Fortunately, authorities reported that they did not believe any serious injuries had occurred.
The cause of the malfunction is still unknown, and Oaks Park officials have yet to provide a comment on the incident. Located just 3.5 miles from downtown Portland, Oaks Park is Oregon’s oldest amusement park, with a history dating back to 1905.
Investigations into the malfunction will focus on identifying any mechanical failures or human errors that may have contributed to the incident.
Amusement park accidents have prompted increased scrutiny and stricter safety protocols in recent years. Visitors are reminded to prioritize their safety by following ride guidelines and promptly reporting any malfunctions or unusual behavior to park staff.
As authorities and park officials continue their investigation, it is crucial to ensure the safety of future park visitors and prevent similar incidents from occurring. Regular inspections and adherence to rigorous safety measures will be key in achieving this goal.