A North Carolina amusement park closed one of its roller coasters after a man saw a large crack that caused a support beam to move visibly out of place as a car full of passengers sped by.
Carowinds confirmed on Sunday that the Fury 325 has been shut down for repairs after being informed of the problem with the steel support pillar. A «comprehensive inspection» is underway and the ride will be closed indefinitely until the problem is fixed, according to the park’s statement.
«Safety is our top priority and we appreciate our valued guests’ patience and understanding during this process,» the park said. «As part of our comprehensive safety protocols, all rides, including Fury 325, undergo daily inspections to ensure proper function and structural integrity.»
Jeremy Wagner posted the video on Facebook late Friday, saying the lightning appeared to move anywhere from two to four feet as the roller coaster car sped down the track.
wagner said WCNC, an NBC News affiliate who reported the problem to guest services at Carowinds amusement park.
The park’s website advertises Fury 325 as the «tallest, fastest, and longest gig roller coaster in North America.» The roller coaster has a maximum height of 325 feet and reaches speeds of up to 95 mph.
Carowinds’ address is in Charlotte, North Carolina, but its land includes areas that cross the state line from South Carolina.
«Fury 325 is the longest steel roller coaster in North America and is over 1.25 miles long. The average ride time is 3.25 minutes, and the ride crosses the state lines of North Carolina and South Carolina,» the site said.
austin mullen contributed.