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Roller Coaster Malfunction Traps Students
29 May
Summary
- Eight Houston STEM students were on the roller coaster.
- The Iron Shark roller coaster got stuck during its ascent.
- Galveston Fire Department assisted in the rescue operation.
Eight Houston STEM students were recently on a senior trip when they became trapped on the Iron Shark roller coaster at Galveston's Pleasure Pier. The ride malfunctioned during its initial ascent, leaving the students suspended near the top.
The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. on May 29, 2026, and by 7:40 p.m., the riders were still stuck. Rescue efforts were underway, with the Galveston Fire Department on site to safely remove each person using a harness.
Officials stated the malfunction was designed to stop the ride for safety. The entire Pleasure Pier was evacuated to facilitate the rescue operation. A full inspection will be conducted before the ride is allowed to operate again.
