Twenty-two thrill-seekers were left suspended in the air for more than two hours after a technical malfunction on a ride at Knott’s Berry Farm ended their fun.
The Sol Spin ride experienced technical difficulties, causing it to stop mid-cycle around 2 p.m., a Knott’s Berry Farm spokesperson said in a statement. Amusement park staff were able to safely evacuate all riders around 4:30 p.m. Two female riders were taken to hospital for further assessment “out of an abundance of caution”, the spokesperson said.
The ride consists of six swinging arms that rise six stories high and rotate 360 degrees, giving riders the sensation of spinning in three directions at once. When the ride froze, riders found themselves dangling from multiple angles.
Footage from ABC7 News’ helicopters showed amusement park workers using a crane to make repairs to the faulty ride around 3:30 p.m.
Staff were then able to lower the ride’s arms and evacuate passengers around 4:30 p.m., with several people limping and at least one person escorted in a wheelchair, according to KTLA.
The ride is located in the Fiesta Village section of Buena Park amusement park.
