Smiler rollercoaster: Passengers stuck as Alton Towers ride breaks down months after reopening following crash
Ride evacuated following claims debris had fallen from carriage
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Smiler rollercoaster at Alton Towers has broken down, trapping passengers in the air just months after it reopened following a crash.
Footage showed more than a dozen riders stuck on the ride, with their carriages stationary on the track.
The people were reportedly stuck on the ride for over an hour.
An Alton Towers spokesperson told the Independent the ride has now been evacuated, but that it hopes to be operational again later today.
They said: “On Thursday 1st September, Alton Towers Resort stopped The Smiler to investigate claims a piece of debris had fallen from a carriage.
“At no time were guests on the ride at any risk and all were safely removed from the ride promptly by staff in line with our comprehensive safety procedures.
“As the health and safety of our guests is our priority, the ride will remain closed whilst the resort’s technical team investigate the matter.”
The rollercoaster reopened in March this year following a safety investigation sparked by a crash that caused two riders to have part of their legs amputated.
Vicky Balch and Leah Washington were among several people left with serious injuries after their carriage crashed with another that was stationary on the track.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments