Guests at Oaks Park in Oregon faced a nightmare on Friday, June 14, when the “AtmosFEAR” ride malfunctioned, leaving them hanging upside down mid-air. The incident occurred on the park’s first day of the summer season.
Portland Fire and Rescue responded to the scene, assisting approximately 30 trapped riders. Witness Chris Ryan, who captured video footage, expressed his shock, noting it was an unprecedented occurrence at Oaks Park.
Park engineers and fire officials worked together to lower the ride and evacuate the riders manually. The Fire Bureau confirmed that all riders were safely evacuated and medically evaluated. Initial reports suggested no serious injuries, though the cause of the malfunction remains under investigation.
Oaks Park, located 3.5 miles from downtown Portland, is one of the oldest continuously operating amusement parks in the United States, having opened on May 30, 1905.
One rider described the chaotic scene, with screams and cries from those dangling upside down. Daniel Allen, a rider, shared his emotional ordeal, stating, “I was crying… I don’t think I’ve ever appreciated my life more. This is really an acknowledgment moment for me.”