19 Injured on Six Flags Great Adventure Roller Coaster, Ride Ordered to be Shutdown

At least 19 people were injured Thursday night as a result of a malfunction on the El Toro rollercoaster at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey.

New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Orders Shutdown of El Toro Rollercoaster

According to the Daily Voice, at least 19 people suffered injuries when the 19-story El Toro rollercoaster “lurched forward” as passengers were boarding the ride. Five of the injured people were hospitalized, and 14 others were treated at the scene.

Tammori C. Petty-Dixon, a spokesperson with the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, said witnesses reported a loud bang as the El Toro train jolted forward during operation. Of the five hospitalized, one suffered a neck injury, two sustained back injuries, and two others suffered mouth and tongue injuries.

The Department of Community Affairs ordered the raid to be shut down and ride inspectors to investigate the incident.

Not the First Malfunction for the 181-Foot El Toro Rollercoaster

USA Today reports that this is not the first malfunction reported on the El Toro rollercoaster. In June 2021, the ride was closed following a partial derailment.

The ride was “red-tagged” after that incident and removed from operation for review. It was re-opened earlier this year.

Inspectors noted that the 2021 derailment was caused by the rear-up wheel – a device that prevents the train from lifting – coming up on top of the rails.

No visitors were injured in the 2021 incident.

Contact an Experienced Amusement Park Accident Attorney

Amusement parks are intended to give families a fun, entertaining venue to have fun and relax. The last thing people should worry about when at an amusement park is their safety and the safety of their children. Regulation and oversight of fixed-site amusement parks can be lacking, which could lead to unsafe rides and experiences. If you or a loved one were injured while at an amusement park, contact Thomas J. Henry for a free case review.

Our experienced amusement park injury lawyers are available 24/7, nights and weekends to take your call. Thomas J. Henry has offices located in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and Houston, serving clients across Texas and nationwide.

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