Woman Injured in Colorado Roller Coaster Accident

A 60-year-old woman experienced severe injuries after an incident on a roller coaster in Colorado. Reports and a legal firm representing her detailed the extent of her injuries, which include a broken rib, collapsed lung, dislocated shoulder requiring surgery, and a traumatic brain injury.

Incident Details

Nicki Parker from Texas was reportedly thrown from her seat and dragged for 20 to 30 seconds while still secured by her seat belt as the Rocky Mountain Coaster at Copper Mountain Resort continued its operation. Her attorney explained that the seat belt wrapped around her, causing her to be dragged along the track. The coaster ride reportedly lasted as her husband, riding behind her, attempted to assist her.

Ongert, the attorney, explained that Parker was lying on the track, 15 to 20 feet above the ground, making immediate assistance difficult. She remains hospitalized following the incident.

Safety Investigation

The Colorado Division of Oil and Public Safety’s Amusement Rides and Devices Program is investigating the incident. The agency stated it is conducting an investigation regarding the incident that occurred on August 17, 2026, involving the Rocky Mountain Coaster.

The coaster is currently closed as the investigation is ongoing. The manufacturer has been directed to publish a safety bulletin and share it with all operators of impacted rides. A similar ride at Purgatory Resort has also been shut down pending investigation results. Documentation related to the incident will remain confidential until the investigation is concluded.

Resort Statement

The Rocky Mountain Coaster, noted as the second longest alpine coaster in North America at 5,800 feet, remains closed. The resort issued a press release expressing their concern and wishes for Parker’s recovery.