32 Individuals Rescued After Ride Breaks Down at Six Flags America

On Saturday at Six Flags America in Bowie, Maryland, a rescue operation was conducted when a malfunctioning ride left approximately 32 riders stranded for over an hour.

Emergency teams responded to the amusement park around 3:25 p.m. to work alongside park staff in evacuating the stranded guests, as reported in a post by Prince George’s County Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department (PGFD) on X.

The 32 passengers were stuck for more than an hour, local outlet WUSA9 reported.

“Technical Rescue 3:25pm 13700 block Central Ave in Largo,” PGFD shared on X that Saturday. “PGFD Technical Rescue units on scene at [Six Flags America] collaborating with park staff to evacuate around 32 riders stuck on a ride. Patients will be assessed by EMS.”

The spokesperson mentioned that sensors sometimes activate alerts that halt the ride, akin to a “check engine” light. Unlike a car, the ride won’t resume operation until the issue has been addressed.

“Occasionally, a more extensive assessment by trained professionals is necessary for the ride. In those instances, we need to unload riders — as was the case yesterday,” the spokesperson stated.

Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor in Bowie, Maryland, which rebranded and opened as a Six Flags property in 1999, will operate for the final time on Nov. 2, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation announced earlier this year.

“As part of our comprehensive review of our park portfolio, we have determined that Six Flags America and Hurricane Harbor are not a strategic fit with the company’s long-term growth plan,” Six Flags President and CEO Richard Zimmerman said in a statement at the time. “After reviewing a number of options, we believe that marketing the property for redevelopment will generate the highest value and return on investment.” 

Prince George’s County Fire and EMS did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.