TAIF, Saudi Arabia — A fairground ride carrying park-goers collapsed during operation at a mountain resort near Jeddah, injuring at least 23 people, including three critically, officials said Thursday.
The accident occurred Wednesday evening at an amusement park in the Al-Hada area of Taif, according to Arab News. The ride, known as the “360 Big Pendulum,” malfunctioned mid-swing, sending its circular passenger platform crashing into part of the structure before slamming into the ground.
Video of the incident shows the ride buckling as it swung forward, with passengers hurled downward in a violent impact.
State media reported that emergency crews rushed to the scene within minutes. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals, where three victims remained in critical condition as of Thursday morning.
Prince Saud bin Nahar bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, the regional governor, ordered the park’s immediate closure pending a full investigation into the cause of the failure.
“The resort has been shut down while authorities assess the situation and conduct safety reviews,” Arab News stated.
Officials have not confirmed what led to the structural collapse. The identities and nationalities of those injured have not yet been released.
The “360 Big Pendulum” is a swinging pendulum-style ride with a rotating passenger hub, popular at large amusement venues. Its failure has prompted renewed concerns over ride safety in the kingdom.
No deaths have been reported. Authorities said updates would follow as the investigation progress
