Six Flags Over Texas Roaring Rapids Malfunction Sends Guests Leaping into Water

A mechanical issue on the Roaring Rapids ride at Six Flags Over Texas forced guests to jump into the water after their raft became stuck, leading to screams and concerns from onlookers.

A malfunction on the Roaring Rapids ride at Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington, Texas, sent guests into a panic as they were forced to leap into the water to escape. The incident was captured on video and has since gone viral on TikTok, sparking safety concerns and the temporary shutdown of the ride.

According to a Six Flags spokesperson, the incident occurred when one of the rafts on the water ride became stuck, prompting instructions for the guests to remain seated while the ride was restarted. However, the situation took an unexpected turn when the water current suddenly reversed, causing the raft to become unstable.

Six Flags Over Texas Roaring Rapids Malfunction Sends Guests Leaping into Water

Witnesses reported hearing shouts and gasps from onlookers as guests began jumping into the water in an attempt to exit their raft. Among those who took the leap was a young child, who appeared to be struggling in the current of the water. Fortunately, another rider came to the child's aid, helping them to safety.

The footage, which has been widely circulated on social media, shows five rafts bunched together in one section of the ride, with the current flowing in reverse. Multiple people are seen jumping into the water and swimming towards solid ground.

Six Flags Over Texas Roaring Rapids Malfunction Sends Guests Leaping into Water

A Six Flags spokesperson has confirmed that all guests on the ride were able to exit safely and there were no injuries reported. However, the incident has raised concerns about the ride's safety measures and maintenance protocols.

The Roaring Rapids ride, which can accommodate up to 12 people per raft, is described by Six Flags as a "playfully treacherous passage downriver" where guests can expect to be drenched with "buckets of cold river water." The incident has raised questions about the effectiveness of the ride's safety features and the training of the ride operators.

Six Flags Over Texas Roaring Rapids Malfunction Sends Guests Leaping into Water

In 1999, a similar incident occurred on the Roaring Rapids ride, resulting in the drowning of a 28-year-old Arkansas woman and injuries to 10 others. The boat in that incident overturned in about 2–3 feet of water, highlighting the potential dangers associated with water rides.

The Six Flags spokesperson stated that the ride will remain closed until a thorough investigation can be completed and any necessary repairs or adjustments can be made. Safety is the company's top priority, and they are committed to ensuring the well-being of all their guests.

Six Flags Over Texas Roaring Rapids Malfunction Sends Guests Leaping into Water

The incident has sparked conversations about the responsibility of amusement parks to maintain their rides to the highest safety standards and to provide adequate training to their employees. The investigation into the malfunction on the Roaring Rapids ride is ongoing, and updates will be provided as they become available.