Yesterday on Xcelerator at Knott’s Berry Farm the cable snapped during a launch and was captured by an on-ride video camera. The riders get sprayed with the cable bits near the end of the launch. While coming back down it ran over the broken cable and it went up through the floor boards of the cars injuring several people (though not appearing to be serious, extent of injuries not known at this time). Hopefully everyone is alright.
Somehow the video of the accident made it onto YouTube. (Warning, not for the faint of heart, very disturbing video indeed)
The video can be viewed here.
Two guests were smacked with debris after a cable came loose on the “Xcelerator” roller coaster at Knotts Berry Farm in Orange County, park officials confirmed Wednesday.
A 12-year-old boy suffered lacerations to the leg and a male adult complained of back pain, and both were sent to a local hospital. No other injuries were reported.
A spokesman for the park confirmed that a cable came loose on the ride.
A YouTube video of the incident shows two people riding the Xcelerator, clutching the safety harness and screaming — when suddenly debris flies through the screen and hits them. Both riders seem shocked, and one puts his hand to his head.
Park officials said they check the ride every day and the correct cable was attached. Unfortunately their safety guide doesn’t mention what to do when a cable breaks. They released the following statement:
Statement from Knott’s Berry Farm:
Buena Park, Calif. (September 16, 2009) – Two guests were transported to the hospital today when a cable came loose from the Xcelerator roller coaster at Knott’s Berry Farm. The incident caused lacerations to one 12 year old guest who came in contact with the cable. A male adult guest complained of back pain. All other guests were asked for a statement and released.
Knott’s officials immediately suspended operation of Xcelerator. The ride is being inspected by Knott’s Berry Farm and DOSH. The ride will remain closed until a full investigation can be performed.
sad i went on xcelerator one time something like this happened only it stalled not as bad but im crying for them right now!
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