A fatal ride malfunction on the Fire Ball roller coaster in Ohio has prompted ride shutdowns across California, including San Diego.
After the Fire Ball roller coaster in Ohio broke apart, killing at least one and critically injuring another, amusement park officials are taking extra safety precautions to prevent similar tragedies.
The Beach Blaster was closed Thursday at the Belmont Park in San Diego, in light of the fireball tragedy, park officials said.
Amusement ride owners have voluntarily shut down the six Fire Ball rides at amusement parks statewide, according to Cal/OSHA. The Amusement Ride and Tramway Unit asked park owners to close the rides after the fatal accident.
The rides may reopen once the manufacturers release further information or the rides have been inspected by Cal/OSHA.
According to Cal/OSHA, the rides that will be shut down across California include the following:
• Belmont Park in San Diego
Local
• Orange County Fair, owned and operated by Ray Cammack Shows (portable ride)
• Cal Expo State Fair, owned and operated by Butler Amusements (portable ride)
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
• California’s Great America in Santa Clara
• Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park
Cal/OSHA works to protect the safety of passengers riding on elevators, amusement rides and tramways. Further information on the safety requirements for permanent amusement rides in California is available on their website.
