A family day out at Coney Beach Amusement Park ends in chaos after a ride malfunction injures multiple children, including a father’s three kids.
A family outing at Coney Beach Amusement Park took a terrifying turn when the Wacky Worm ride malfunctioned, lifting completely off its tracks while children were aboard. This shocking incident occurred on Wednesday, August 13, around 5:15 PM, leaving witnesses in disbelief and several individuals injured.
Details of the Incident
Matthew Baker, 44, and his family had traveled from Port Talbot to Porthcawl, excited for a day filled with fun. The Wacky Worm, designed as an ideal introductory roller coaster for young children, quickly caught the eye of Baker’s four-year-old son, who is autistic and non-verbal.
His teenage daughters were eager to take him on the ride, their excitement palpable.
However, the joy turned to horror just moments after the ride began. A loud noise erupted, followed by the ride coming to a jarring halt. In a shocking twist, the back end of the train lifted off the rails.
“The impact was so severe that it dislodged a section of the security fencing, nearly hitting my partner,” Matthew recounted, recalling how he instinctively pushed her out of harm’s way.
“I ran towards the ride, shouting for the operator to unlock the gate,” Matthew continued. Joined by another concerned bystander, they struggled to open the gate to rescue those trapped inside. “My 15-year-old daughter wrapped her arms around my son to shield him,” he said, praising her quick thinking amidst the chaos.
Injuries and Aftermath
The aftermath was alarming. Matthew reported that his son suffered a busted lip and visible bruising, while his daughters also sustained injuries, including a swollen jaw and bruised ribs. “Physically, they were fine after being checked at Morriston Hospital, but mentally, it’s been tough,” he expressed, voicing concern for his son’s emotional state following the traumatic event.
Emergency services arrived about ten minutes later, and witnesses described a chaotic scene, with people demanding refunds and expressing their outrage. “When police arrived, there were shouts to close the park down,” Matthew recalled, echoing the sentiments shared by many who witnessed the frightening event.
South Wales Police confirmed that 13 children and one adult sustained minor injuries, with some requiring hospital treatment. They announced that the amusement park would remain closed for investigations, urging the public to avoid the area for safety reasons.
Investigation and Community Response
In the wake of this incident, park officials and health and safety personnel launched an investigation. Matthew noted the distressing experience of being asked to return to the ride for statements while his children were still shaken. “It was a blur, but we needed to get out of there,” he emphasized, capturing the urgency of the moment.
This incident raises critical concerns about ride safety, especially when children are involved. Parents and guardians expect amusement parks to provide a secure environment, and any failure can have lasting impacts on the families affected.
As investigations continue, the community stands in support of the affected families. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety regulations and oversight in amusement parks. With the memories of that terrifying day still fresh, many are left to reflect on the fragility of joy during what should have been a carefree family outing.
