JACKSON – Inspectors have found structural damage on the El Toro roller coaster at Six Flags Great Adventure and as a result, it will remain closed.
The investigation began on the coaster after multiple injuries were reported last month due to a malfunction. At the time, five guests were taken to a local medical facility for evaluation.
On Wednesday, the state Department of Community Affairs said they found structural damage to multiple wooden track support columns after preliminary investigation.
Although experts are still investigation the cause of the damage, the track support had been deemed structurally compromised.
Six Flags spokesperson Gabriel Darretta told Jersey Shore Online that the ride will remain closed for more reviews and repairs.
“A careful and deliberate review of the entire ride indicates the primary and backup safety systems of the ride ensured the train completed its ride cycle safely. Experts discovered a section of the ride sub-structure that requires repair. The ride will remain closed to complete the review and make necessary repairs,” Darretta said.
In addition, Darretta said the coaster is expected to reopen of the 2023 season and will be inspected once again before its reopening.
“Every ride at Six Flags is inspected each day prior to opening. Additionally, all rides are inspected in the off-season including non-destructive testing such as x-ray and magnetic particle imaging. All manufacturer guidelines for maintenance are followed, at a minimum, with additional requirements as directed by Six Flags’ full-time, credentialed engineers,” Darretta said.
