Riders Trapped on Roller Coaster
Eight riders remained stuck near the top of Galveston’s Pleasure Pier Iron Shark roller coaster for over three hours before they were rescued. The incident occurred after a mechanical failure halted the ride.
Rescue Operation
The Galveston Police Department reported that authorities arrived at the scene around 5:35 p.m. The Galveston Fire Department used a ladder truck and safety harnesses to evacuate the passengers individually. This rescue took approximately three and a half hours.
Televised Rescue
Local TV stations covered the incident live, displaying footage of riders stranded on the coaster’s vertical lift hill, about 100 feet above the pier.
Student Involvement
Among those trapped were students from Energized for STEM Academy Middle and High Schools, part of the Houston Independent School District. The district expressed gratitude for the safety of students, staff, and chaperones, thanking rescue workers for their efforts.
Unknown Cause
Authorities have not disclosed the reason for the malfunction. Pleasure Pier COO Terry Turney stated the ride safely stopped upon failure, prompting immediate contact with the Fire Department to ensure a secure removal process.
The ride is set for a comprehensive inspection prior to reopening.
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