Saudi Arabia: 23 Injured After 360-Degree Amusement Ride Snaps Mid-Air

A mechanical failure at Green Mountain Park in Taif led to 23 injuries, with several critical cases. Emergency services responded promptly, and an investigation is ongoing to assess safety protocols.

A mechanical failure at Green Mountain Park in Taif, Saudi Arabia, led to a terrifying accident on Wednesday evening. The incident involved the 360 Degrees ride, a pendulum-style attraction that swings riders on a rotating pole. During operation, the central pole unexpectedly snapped mid-air, causing the gondola to crash violently to the ground. This tragic event resulted in injuries to 23 people, with several in critical condition.

Emergency Response and Investigation

Emergency services were quick to respond, including civil defense, police units, and medical teams. While some injured individuals received treatment at the scene, most were transported to nearby hospitals. Officials later confirmed that three of the victims sustained critical injuries. Fortunately, no fatalities occurred during this incident.

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as park visitors rushed to assist those affected. Videos shared on social media captured the ride swinging with passengers before disaster struck. The footage shows young men and women initially enjoying the ride until panic ensued when the structure failed.

The Governor of Taif, Prince Saud bin Nahar, ordered an immediate shutdown of the park following the accident. A formal investigation has been initiated to uncover the cause of the malfunction. The probe aims to ensure accountability and assess whether safety protocols were followed correctly.

Details of the Incident

Witnesses reported hearing a cracking sound moments before the collapse. As the central pole split into two parts mid-air, chaos erupted among onlookers who rushed to help or fled in fear. The pole's recoil reportedly struck individuals standing nearby, adding to the number of injuries.

The ride was filled with visitors when it malfunctioned without warning. Several people were ejected from their seats during the incident, while others suffered injuries from the impact as they hit the ground. The area around the damaged ride was quickly cordoned off by authorities for safety reasons.

Images and videos from the scene depict distressed park visitors and injured individuals lying on the ground. Eyewitnesses described it as a traumatic experience as emergency personnel worked swiftly to manage the situation and provide aid.

In light of these events, officials are determined to identify what went wrong with this popular attraction. They aim to prevent similar incidents in future by thoroughly examining safety measures and ensuring compliance with regulations across all amusement parks in Saudi Arabia.