A North Carolina amusement park shut down one of its roller coasters after a man saw a large crack that caused a support beam to visibly move out of place as a car full of passengers went by.
Carowinds confirmed on Sunday that the Fury 325 was closed for repairs after being informed of the problem with the steel support pillar. A “thorough inspection” is underway and the ride will be closed indefinitely until the issue is resolved, according to the park’s statement.
“Safety is our highest priority and we appreciate the patience and understanding of our valued guests during this process,” the park said. “As part of our comprehensive safety protocols, all rides, including the Fury 325, undergo daily inspections to ensure proper operation and structural integrity.”
A slot in a roller coaster at an amusement park in Charlotte, North CarolinaCourtesy of Jeremy Wagner
Jeremy Wagner posted the video on Facebook Friday night, saying the beam appeared to move two to four feet as the mountain people’s car sped down the track.
Wagner said NBC News affiliate WCNC who reported the problem to Carowinds Amusement Park Guest Services.
The park’s website advertises Fury 325 as “the tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster in North America.” The roller coaster has a maximum height of 325 feet and reaches speeds of up to 95 mph.
Carowinds’ address is in Charlotte, North Carolina, but its land includes areas that cross the state line into South Carolina.
“Fury 325 is the longest steel coaster in North America and is over 1.25 miles long. The average ride time is 3.25 minutes and the ride crosses the Carolina state lines from the North and the South,” the site said.
Austin Mullen contributed.
