A ride malfunction at Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California, left more than 20 people temporarily stranded 60 feet in the air on Saturday, July 26.
The incident occurred on the Sol Spin ride, a high-thrill attraction that spins and swings riders dozens of feet above ground. A video posted to the Citizen app showed guests suspended mid-air as the ride came to an unexpected stop.
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A spokesperson for Knott’s Berry Farm confirmed the ride was halted for “approximately five minutes” before all guests were safely brought down. The ride underwent a full safety inspection and was reopened shortly afterward.
“The safety of our guests is a top priority,” the park said in a statement.
Sol Spin, which opened in 2017, has experienced issues in the past. In November 2024, 22 riders were trapped on the same attraction for several hours after it malfunctioned mid-cycle. At the time, Knott’s officials said emergency procedures were followed to safely evacuate everyone.
In that earlier incident, two guests were taken to the hospital as a precaution.
Saturday’s malfunction did not result in any reported injuries. The ride’s minimum height requirement is 4 feet 5 inches, and it’s known for its multi-directional spinning motion and elevated swings that give it a reputation as one of the park’s most intense rides.
Knott’s Berry Farm said it will continue to follow strict safety protocols and review ride performance to ensure guest safety going forward.
