Galveston Roller Coaster Stuck 50 Feet in the Air for Over Two Hours, Dozens Rescued
GALVESTON, Texas – Investigators are probing a mechanical failure that stranded 40 passengers on a roller coaster at a popular Gulf Coast amusement park for more than two hours Wednesday afternoon.
According to officials from the Galveston Fire Department, the incident occurred at approximately 2:30 p.m. local time at Pleasure Pier, when the "Galveston Island Coaster" malfunctioned mid-ride, halting the train approximately 50 feet above the ground. Park safety personnel immediately activated emergency protocols and contacted municipal authorities.
Fire rescue crews deployed an aerial ladder truck to reach the stranded riders. Emergency responders, working in coordination with park engineers, evacuated all 40 individuals without injury over a 45-minute period. The final passenger was brought to solid ground by 5:15 p.m.
A park spokesperson confirmed the ride remains closed pending a full inspection by the ride manufacturer and independent engineers. Preliminary assessments indicate a control system error caused the emergency stop.
No hospitalizations were reported. The park has offered complimentary tickets to all affected guests. This incident is the latest in a series of recent amusement ride malfunctions nationwide, prompting renewed scrutiny of high-thrill attraction safety standards.