Brave Firefighters Save 28 People Trapped Inverted on Oregon Ride
A daring rescue mission was successfully carried out by firefighters to save 28 individuals who found themselves suspended 100ft in the air upside down on a thrilling ride at an amusement park in Oregon. Fortunately, only one person, who had a pre-existing medical condition, was taken to the hospital for precautionary measures after the AtmosFEAR ride malfunctioned, according to a statement released by Oaks Amusement Park in Portland on their social media platforms.
Despite the unsettling situation, no injuries were reported during the incident. Chris Ryan, who was at the park celebrating his birthday with his wife, shared their experience of witnessing the ride malfunction just as they were about to embark on this pendulum-style attraction that could swing riders completely upside down. They decided to step back from the ride due to the alarming circumstances.
Pic: Tieanna Joseph Cade/AP
Subsequently, they opted to ride a Ferris wheel and were instructed through a loudspeaker announcement that the park was closing, and all visitors needed to exit immediately.
Portland Fire and Rescue collaborated with engineers at Oaks Park, which has been serving visitors since 1905, to manually bring down the ride. They were prepared to conduct a high-angle ropes rescue if required.
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Once the ride halted, park personnel promptly contacted emergency services, who arrived within approximately 25 minutes. Maintenance workers efficiently maneuvered the ride back to its regular unloading position shortly after, as stated by the amusement park.
Pic: Oregon Amusement Ride-Rescue/AP
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The amusement ride, which has been operational since 2021 without any prior incidents, will remain closed until further notice. The park management expressed their intention to collaborate with the ride’s manufacturer and state inspectors to identify the cause of the malfunction.
The park authorities extended their gratitude to the first responders and staff for their swift actions resulting in a positive outcome. They also appreciated the cooperation of other park guests who promptly followed instructions to evacuate, allowing emergency responders to attend to the situation without hindrance.
Oaks Park’s website boasts of offering visitors a delightful mix of contemporary thrills and historic charm, creating a nostalgic experience that has enchanted generations of Northwesterners.
