From Thrills to Tragedy: Shocking Texas Amusement Park Accidents

Amusement parks are built for fun, thrills, and unforgettable memories, but sometimes the excitement turns dangerous. Texas, home to some of the biggest and most popular theme parks in the country, has also seen its share of shocking accidents over the years. From ride malfunctions to tragic falls, these incidents have left a lasting impact on both park-goers and safety regulations. Here are some of the most shocking Texas amusement park accidents that made headlines.

Read More: From Tragic to Bizarre: 10 Unbelievable Texas Accidents

It should be noted that serious amusement park injuries are quite rare; however, if you would like to know of any recently reported accidents that have occurred at a Texas amusement park, you can find that information easily here. Most of the accidents are not too serious, but may make you wince- from cuts to chipped teeth, yeowch!

The Most Notorious Accidents at Texas Parks

Astroworld employee deaths

Astroworld, a now-defunct Six Flags attraction in Houston, got off to a bad start after two employees were crushed to death before the park was even opened. The accident happened in 1968 when the equipment malfunctioned, dropping a boat on top of two brothers, killing them.

Read More: Texas Ranks Number One For Deadly School Bus Accidents

In 1991, another employee was killed while standing on the tracks of the famous coaster, The Excalibur. A signal malfunctioned, causing a car to come down the tracks while he was performing maintenance. The man died from blunt force trauma.

Hurricane Harbor Splashtown Employee Death

An employee fell from an unnamed structure while performing a work-related task, causing that person's death.

Six Flags Over Texas Deaths 

In 1968, an employee fell into a machine pit while trying to help a patron off a ride, causing fatal facial and head wounds.

In 1999, a woman drowned to death and 10 others were injured on the Roaring Rapids ride when the raft deflated and overturned. Six Flags paid a settlement to the family but went on to sue the manufacturer of the equipment over the accident.

In 2011, a woman was found unresponsive in the Lazy River. Employees attempted CPR, but the woman ultimately died. The family sued, claiming inadequate response and the use of a faulty defibrillator.

In 2013 a woman fell 75 feet to her death on the New Texas Giant, hitting a support beam on the way down. Her body was, "found partially severed and strewn across a roof." She had expressed concern that she had not been properly restrained.

What Visitors Should Know Before Riding in Texas

While these shocking accidents serve as a reminder of the risks that can come with high-speed thrills, they’ve also led to stronger safety standards across Texas amusement parks. Visitors can help protect themselves by paying attention to ride rules, following height and weight restrictions, and reporting any concerns to park staff. Before your next trip to a Texas amusement park, take a moment to review safety guidelines. It’s the best way to make sure the day ends with memories of fun, not tragedy.