GALVESTON — Eight students from Houston Independent School District charter schools were rescued after being stranded on the Iron Shark roller coaster at Pleasure Pier in Galveston, Texas, on June 18, 2024. The roller coaster malfunctioned during its initial ascent and stopped near the top, leaving the riders facing straight up approximately 100 feet in the air.

The ride first became stuck at approximately 5:30 p.m., prompting Pleasure Pier officials to contact the Galveston Fire Department. Rescuers deployed a tower truck that extended to a maximum height of 105 feet to reach the stranded students. Each student was secured in a harness, carefully removed from their seat, and brought down the ladder one at a time. The rescue operation took more than three hours, with approximately 20 minutes between each student being brought down.

All eight students were rescued with no serious injuries reported. Galveston Fire Chief Mike Varela said, "Of course they were shaken up from climbing that ladder down, being in that hot sun. They have been checked for dehydration and everyone seems to be doing pretty good."

Terry Turney, Chief Operating Officer of Pleasure Pier, said, "The ride experienced a malfunction at its initial ascent, however, as designed, it immediately stopped to keep everyone safe. Our focus immediately shifted to the safety of our guests. Therefore, we contacted the Fire Department to assist, ensuring all guests were safely removed from the ride. A thorough inspection of the ride will take place before it is placed back in service."

The students were on a field trip organized by Energized for STEM Academy Middle School and STEM Academy High School. Pleasure Pier was evacuated during the rescue operation. The Iron Shark roller coaster will remain closed until it undergoes a full safety inspection.