Cyclone Roller Coaster Leaves Passengers Stranded At Coney Island
Opening day at Coney Island was injected with a bit of fear when riders of the famous Cyclone roller coaster were forced to abandon the safety of the car and climb down from the top of the ride on foot. Hardcore fans of the iconic coaster had been waiting for hours to be on this year’s inaugural ride but only seconds into the trip, it was obvious that something was wrong. Due to a belt slipping, the wooden marvel failed to reach the top of its first major incline. Instead, it came to a halt about 10 feet shy of the highest point, leaving passengers stranded at a dizzying 75 feet above ground.
Locking mechanisms engaged to keep the car from rolling backwards as rescue crews scrambled up the coasters frame to aid riders in the descent. No one was injured, just a bit shaken up as they were escorted down the narrow rail back to the ground. One of the riders, David Zubin, said “That was the scariest thing I ever did. The bricks, walking down, looked like it was going to break when you stepped on it.“
Despite the perilous trek, many passengers were undeterred and waited to see if the ride would reopen so they could try their luck again. “It was definitely an interesting experience” said Adam Myers, “I’m ready to go back as soon as they give the okay.” As one of the few wooden roller coasters still running, the 88 year old Cyclone draws many longtime fans who come back year after year to take in the thrill of this twister. In a statement posted to Facebook, a Luna Park representative said “This was an isolated issue and it is quickly being resolved. The Cyclone will reopen after proper inspection. Those on the ride were safely evacuated according to our safety training procedures and will be able to ride again for free.“
