Ride Malfunctions, Leaving Four Stranded at Six Flags St. Louis

Eureka, Mo. (KFMO) - Rescue crews from multiple departments were called Thursday evening to Six Flags St. Louis after a ride malfunction left four people stranded high above the park for nearly three hours.

According to the Metro West Fire Protection District, the SkyScreamer ride stopped working around 5:30 p.m. while a family of four, two adults and two teenagers, were aboard. The riders were left suspended approximately 120 feet in the air.

Fire officials say multiple agencies responded to the scene and immediately began planning a high-angle rope rescue operation. Crews evaluated several possible techniques to safely reach and lower the riders.

Six Flags personnel also attempted to use on-site equipment, including a crane, but officials say it was unable to safely reach the stranded riders.

As rescue efforts continued into the evening, crews carefully coordinated the operation. Just before 8:20 p.m., two of the riders were successfully lowered to the ground. Moments later, the remaining two were brought down safely as well.

Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported in the incident.

The cause of the SkyScreamer malfunction has not yet been determined, and park officials say an investigation is ongoing.