23 Injured After Amusement Park Ride Crashes to Ground in Saudi Arabia
- A fairground ride collapsed mid-air at a Saudi amusement park, injuring 23 people, including three critically
- The dramatic incident was captured on video, showing the “360 Big Pendulum” snapping and crashing to the ground
- Authorities have shut down Green Mountain Park in Taif and launched an investigation into the cause of the accident
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At least 23 people were injured, three of them critically, after a fairground ride collapsed at Green Mountain Park in Taif, Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday evening, according to state media reports.
The incident occurred in the Al-Hada area of Taif, near the city of Jeddah, and has prompted an immediate investigation ordered by regional authorities.
Source: Getty Images
Saudi Arabia fairground accident, ride snaps mid-air
The attraction, known as the “360 Big Pendulum” or “360 Degrees,” malfunctioned during operation, sending its passenger-bearing carousel crashing to the ground. Verified footage shared on social media and confirmed by CNN showed the ride’s supporting pole snapping in half as it reached the peak of its swing.
The circular platform, which typically rotates while swaying from side to side, violently collided with the opposite end of the pendulum before slamming into the floor.
Witnesses reported that despite safety straps securing riders to their seats, many were injured during the fall. Bystanders were also struck when the central pole recoiled, adding to the number of casualties.
Source: Depositphotos
Taif hospitals declare code yellow after ride collapse
Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene, treating several victims on-site before transferring others to nearby hospitals. According to the Khaleej Times, three individuals remain in critical condition. Hospitals in Taif reportedly declared a code yellow emergency, a protocol used for mass casualty incidents.
In response to the accident, Prince Saud bin Nahar bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, governor of the region, ordered the immediate closure of the resort while authorities conduct a full investigation. As of Thursday, the exact cause of the structural failure remains unknown.
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Tour with high-stakes visit to Saudi Arabia
Legit.ng earlier reported that U.S. President Donald Trump has arrived in Saudi Arabia, marking the beginning of his first major international trip since securing a second term in office. The four-day diplomatic journey through the Gulf region will include meetings focused on arms deals, economic investments, and strategic partnerships.
Trump touched down at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh to a formal welcome led by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, popularly known as MBS. Also present was Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, who is serving as an adviser to the president and is among the high-profile guests invited for a royal luncheon.
The U.S. delegation is expected to engage in several bilateral meetings, culminating in a private session between Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed. According to the official itinerary and other sources, the president will participate in a ceremonial coffee and tea service, attend a lunch with top CEOs, and oversee a signing ceremony for a series of agreements.
Source: Legit.ng
