Credit: Alton TowersAn extraordinary roller coaster incident unfolded in the heart of a famous northern theme park, leaving riders traumatized and the amusement park buzzing with tension.
Roller Coaster Accidents Rare, Yet Still Occur
Since 1981, Canada’s Wonderland has been a top destination for travelers, a fun spot America can easily access. It’s effectively the northern version of Coney Island. Located in Vaughan, just north of Toronto, the amusement park features over 200 attractions, including 18 roller coasters, two children’s areas, and Splash Works, the 20-acre water park.
Related: Theme Park Guide to Canada: Major Hits and Hidden Gems
The draw is typically heart-pounding adventures on roller coasters, live shows, or special events. However, the incident at this amusement park left many “traumatized” and frightened to return.
The Night Suspense Took Hold: Roller Coaster Incident
The event occurred on a fateful Saturday night at a typically fun spot in Canada. The iconic amusement park, Canada’s Wonderland, went awry, and guests suffered severely. The popular Lumberjack ride turned into a rollercoaster of emotions as two guests dangled upside down for an astonishing duration.
Related: Dozens of Guests Trapped on Disney World Attraction
Amid the excitement and screams that typically fill the air at Canada’s Wonderland, a roller coaster incident unfolded that sent shockwaves through thrill-seekers. The Lumberjack ride abruptly halted, leaving its riders suspended upside down for nearly half an hour. Before releasing guests, two were checked for “chest pains,” according to CBC news reports.
Thrill Turns to Concern: Unforgettable Roller Coaster Accident
It was a chilling experience that Spencer Parkhouse, an 11-year-old thrill-seeker, and his 15-year-old sister, Mackenzie Parkhouse, will never forget. As the ride ended unexpectedly, the Parkhouse siblings initially believed it to be part of the thrill. However, when ambulances gathered below them, their excitement quickly turned to concern.
Related: Hundreds Trapped in Disney Ride, Left in The Dark
A Night of Uncertainty: Traumatic Injuries and Worries of PTSD
Spencer recalled the uncertainty that gripped him, saying, “[I was] just like feeling — when are we going to drop down? Are we ever going to drop down?” This was a significant milestone for Spencer—a chance to conquer a “big ride” at the park. Little did he know that this roller coaster incident would leave him traumatized.
Related: Disney Attraction Leaves Guest With Emotional Trauma
Panic and Nausea: Issues Continued Despite Ride Operator Using Best Efforts
Panic spread among the trapped riders, and the roller coaster incident took a dreadful turn when someone vomited while suspended upside down. After what must have felt like an eternity, the ride finally resumed. However, the relief was short-lived as the siblings realized they couldn’t immediately disembark.
Related: Disney Guest Suffering Emotional Trauma After Seeing Young Children Go Through “Horrific Experience”
“The ride had to finish still. So the ride continued, and we’re all like, ‘No, please, I don’t want to get stuck again,” Spencer lamented. The roller coaster incident had a profound impact on Mackenzie as well. Once they were safely off the ride, park staff diligently checked all guests for injuries and inquired if anyone had fainted or fallen ill.
A Reshaped Perspective on Amusement Park Fun
Mackenzie was left grappling with newfound fears, wondering if she would ever summon the courage to ride the park’s towering attractions again. “I’m just thinking, will I go on these big rides next time I go to Canada’s Wonderland? Because now I’m scared to go on them,” she confided.
@chubbychicken84 That storm came in QUICK 😳😳😳 #canadaswonderland #torontostorm2022 #crazystorm
Ride Safety Remains Paramount
Amid this unforgettable roller coaster incident, Canada’s Wonderland confirmed that two riders reported chest pain. The park’s health center promptly attended to them before releasing them without further medical attention. The roller coaster incident went viral, with videos capturing the terrified guests mid-ride and upside down.
Related: Disney Violated Guest Safety, Receives Shocking Punishment
As a video capturing the tense moments on the Lumberjack ride circulated on social media, it became clear that this roller coaster incident would be etched into the memories of those involved, forever reshaping their perspective on the thrill of amusement park rides.
The amusement park, Canada’s Wonderland, remains open for riders and amusement park enthusiasts.
What do you think about the riders’ reactions? Share your take in the comments below!