Nearly 30 people were left stranded upside down in the air for more than 20 minutes after the AtmosFEAR ride at Oaks Amusement Park in Portland malfunctioned. The incident occurred around 2:55 p.m. on a Friday, with park staff immediately initiating emergency procedures and calling 911. Emergency responders arrived at the scene around 3:20 p.m. and were able to safely lower the ride, allowing the guests to get off. Portland Fire & Rescue stated that all riders were medically evaluated, with one individual with pre-existing medical conditions being taken to the hospital as a precaution.
Two individuals, Daniel Allen and Jordan Harding, who were at the park to celebrate their high school graduation, shared their experience of being stuck on the malfunctioning ride. They expressed their initial excitement about going on the ride but soon became fearful when they found themselves hanging upside down for an extended period of time. Harding mentioned that hanging upside down for so long caused physical discomfort, with her lower body falling asleep. The park described AtmosFEAR as a popular attraction, offering guests the option of a 360-degree swing or a 180-degree swing.
The ride consists of a giant blue and black pendulum and has been in operation since 2021 without any prior incidents, according to Oaks Park. The park also mentioned that local emergency response teams had conducted emergency response training at the ride the previous year as a standard procedure. The park’s response plan was executed effectively during the incident, ensuring the safety of the stranded guests. Despite the frightening experience, the park emphasized that the ride had operated safely until that point.
Following the incident, one person with pre-existing medical conditions was taken to the hospital for further evaluation, while the rest of the riders were released at the park after being medically evaluated. The two individuals who shared their experience of being stuck on the malfunctioning ride expressed the fear and uncertainty they felt during the ordeal. Harding described the moment when they realized something was wrong and how they reacted to being stranded upside down for an extended period of time. Despite their initial excitement about going on the ride, the experience quickly turned into a harrowing ordeal.
The park’s statement regarding the incident emphasized the effectiveness of their response plan and the safety measures in place during ride malfunctions. The park’s priority was ensuring the well-being of all guests involved in the incident and addressing any medical concerns promptly. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and response protocols at amusement parks to ensure the safety of guests and prevent any potential risks. Oaks Park reassured the public that they are committed to maintaining the safety and security of their rides and attractions for all visitors.
Overall, the incident at Oaks Amusement Park highlighted the potential risks associated with amusement park rides and the importance of having comprehensive safety protocols in place. With the swift response from park staff and emergency responders, the stranded guests were able to safely evacuate the malfunctioning ride without any major injuries. While the ordeal was undoubtedly frightening for those involved, it also serves as a reminder of the critical role of safety measures and emergency preparedness in ensuring the well-being of amusement park guests. Oaks Park’s response to the incident reflects their commitment to prioritizing the safety and security of visitors and maintaining high standards of operational excellence in their attractions.
