On the evening of 17/12, the Circuit Breaker roller coaster, operated by Circuit of the Americas at COTALAND amusement park near Austin, Texas, unexpectedly stopped on its first incline. This incident left two passengers, Matthew Cantu, 24, and Nicholas Sanchez, 20, suspended at a 90-degree angle, Fox News reported on 20/12.

According to the stranded passengers, they "did not receive any clear updates" for over 30 minutes after the ride came to a halt. Witnesses reported that staff offered conflicting explanations for the stoppage, including suggestions that passengers "had not properly fastened their seatbelts".

The Circuit Breaker roller coaster track at COTALAND amusement park in Texas, US. *Photo: Fox News*.

"A sensor was tripped, causing the ride to stop," Circuit of the Americas stated in a release. "The issue was resolved, and the ride continued without incident". The company further commented, "As with any thrill ride, temporary stoppages do occur. We regret the inconvenience and are pleased that out of 25,000 riders, only two have earned this 'badge of courage'".

The Circuit Breaker is Texas' first "tilting" roller coaster, featuring a 90-degree inclined track designed to create a nearly vertical drop. According to KVUE-TV, the ride opened for testing in October and is scheduled to become fully operational next year.

Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services arrived at the scene around 22h to check on one of the two passengers. However, the individual subsequently refused medical care.

Another tilting roller coaster, Siren's Curse, at Cedar Point park in Ohio, has also experienced similar issues multiple times since opening this summer.

Vu Hoang (According to Fox News, AFP, Reuters)