Two individuals were left dangling more than 100 feet in the air for over 30 minutes after a roller coaster at the Circuit of the Americas in Texas malfunctioned. The incident occurred on the Circuit Breaker, the state's first tilt coaster, on Wednesday night, December 18, 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Two riders were stranded 100 feet high on a roller coaster.
- The malfunction occurred on Texas's first tilt coaster, the Circuit Breaker.
- Riders were stuck at a 90-degree angle for over 30 minutes.
- A sensor triggered the ride delay, according to park officials.
- Another tilt coaster, Siren's Curse in Ohio, has also experienced multiple malfunctions.
Incident Details at Circuit of the Americas
Matthew Cantu, 24, and Nicholas Sanchez, 20, were on the Circuit Breaker roller coaster when it unexpectedly stopped. The ride halted at its initial drop, leaving them suspended at a sharp 90-degree angle.
The incident took place at the Circuit of the Americas, a popular entertainment venue near Austin. Family members reported a lack of clear updates for more than half an hour while their loved ones were stuck.
Witnesses at the scene also noted conflicting explanations from staff. Some comments reportedly suggested that the riders 'weren’t strapped in correctly,' according to a news release from the men's publicist.
Fact Check
- Ride: Circuit Breaker roller coaster
- Location: Circuit of the Americas, near Austin, Texas
- Date: Wednesday night, December 18, 2025
- Height Stranded: Over 100 feet
- Duration Stranded: More than 30 minutes
Park's Response and Ride Information
The Circuit of the Americas released a statement addressing the malfunction. They confirmed that a sensor triggered a ride delay.
"A sensor triggered a ride delay," the Circuit of the Americas stated. "It was resolved, and the ride proceeded without incident. As with all amusement attractions of this sort, delays occasionally occur. We regret the inconvenience and are glad that out of the 25,000 people that have ridden the coaster, only two have this badge of courage."
Austin-Travis County EMS responded to the scene before 10 p.m. on Wednesday. One of the men was evaluated by medical personnel but refused further medical attention.
About Tilt Coasters
The Circuit Breaker is notable as Texas's first "tilt" roller coaster. This design features a section of track that tilts 90 degrees, creating a nearly vertical drop for riders. This innovative design offers a unique thrill experience compared to traditional roller coasters.
The Circuit Breaker began its preview operations in October 2025 and is scheduled for its official grand opening in the upcoming year.
Concerns Over Tilt Coaster Reliability
This incident in Texas is not isolated. Another tilt roller coaster, known as the Siren's Curse, located at Cedar Point in Ohio, has also experienced multiple malfunctions since its opening in the summer of 2025.
These repeated incidents raise questions about the reliability and safety protocols associated with this relatively new type of roller coaster technology. Theme parks consistently emphasize rider safety as a top priority.
The design complexity of tilt coasters, with their dramatic 90-degree track movements, introduces additional engineering challenges. Ensuring seamless operation and immediate response to sensor triggers is crucial for passenger confidence.
Impact on Rider Experience and Public Perception
While the Circuit of the Americas stated that only two out of 25,000 riders have experienced such a delay, incidents like this can significantly impact public perception. The image of riders suspended high in the air creates anxiety for potential visitors.
Theme parks rely heavily on their reputation for safety and excitement. Any disruption, even if quickly resolved, can lead to negative publicity and concerns among the public.
Operators are expected to review all safety systems and emergency procedures following such events. Transparency in communicating these reviews can help maintain trust with the public.
Future of Tilt Coasters and Safety Standards
The ongoing issues with both the Circuit Breaker and Siren's Curse coasters highlight a broader discussion within the amusement park industry. As new and more complex ride technologies emerge, the demand for robust safety systems becomes even greater.
Industry standards and regulatory bodies continuously work to update guidelines for ride design, construction, and operation. These incidents serve as critical case studies for evaluating current practices.
Ensuring that emergency response teams are well-trained and equipped to handle rare but significant malfunctions is paramount. Quick and clear communication with affected riders and their families is also essential during such stressful situations.
The amusement park industry continues to innovate, pushing the boundaries of thrill and entertainment. However, these innovations must always be underpinned by an unwavering commitment to rider safety and operational excellence.
