Electrical Malfunction at Kings Island’s “Flight Of Fear”

Emergency crews responded to a call at Kings Island today as heavy smoke filled the Flight of Fear ride building.

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(Photo via twitter user @CoreyGayheart15)

According to authorities and park sources, the smoke was caused by an overheated electical motor. There were no flames, and the smoke stopped after power to the motor was cut off.

2 people were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation. The scene was cleared by 3:45pm.

Kings Island spokesman Don Helbig told Cincinnati’s FOX19: “Today, at approximately 2:40 p.m., the Flight of Fear roller coaster was shut down after smoke was detected inside the ride. Kings Island emergency personnel responded quickly and guests were safely evacuated from the ride and returned to the park. Initial investigations indicate the smoke was caused by an overheated motor. As always, the safety of our guests and associates remains our No. 1 one priority.” 

Flight of Fear opened at Kings Island in 1996, and along with its clone at Kings Dominion, were the first roller coasters to feature a linear induction motor (LIM) launch.

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