Galveston Roller Coaster Stuck Mid-Ride Leaving Passengers Suspended for Over Two Hours
GALVESTON, Texas, March 28, 2025 – A mechanical failure on a roller coaster at a popular Galveston amusement park stranded dozens of riders in an elevated position for an extended period on Thursday afternoon.
**What:** The ride, identified as the "Iron Shark," a steel roller coaster at the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, experienced a malfunction that halted the train of cars on a raised section of the track. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene.
**Who:** An estimated 24 passengers, including several children and adults, were aboard the coaster at the time of the incident. Park officials and local fire department personnel coordinated the rescue operation.
**When:** The incident began at approximately 2:30 PM Central Daylight Time. Passengers remained suspended for more than two hours before being safely escorted down by emergency crews using a ladder and harness system.
**Where:** The malfunction took place on the "Iron Shark" coaster, situated over the Gulf of Mexico on the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier in Galveston County, Southeast Texas.
**Why:** Park management stated the ride was halted due to a "standard safety system activation," triggered by an unspecified technical issue. An investigation into the root cause of the malfunction is underway, with the ride remaining closed pending a full inspection. No injuries were reported.