A roller coaster accident resulted in a person plunging to their death and several others falling from atop the ride on Sunday, June 25. 

The accident occurred at Gröna Lund amusement park in Stockholm, Sweden, when the leading car of the roller coaster jumped off the tracks, leaving the ride in a precarious position. Eyewitness accounts detail the horrific scene of a car hanging perilously close to the ground, leading to people being ejected from the ride. 

In total, nine individuals were taken to the hospital, with injuries ranging from minor to severe. Among the injured were three children. One eyewitness, Ziba Assadi, recounted the chaotic scene of people being thrown from the roller coaster car as it came to an abrupt stop.

Gröna Lund’s CEO, Jan Eriksson, expressed his condolences in a press conference, referring to the tragic day as one of mourning. The roller coaster derailed at a height of 20 to 25 feet, causing the injuries and fatality among the 14 passengers.

Several bystanders reported witnessing people being thrown from the roller coaster, with one individual clinging to the track. A shocking photograph shows a man straddling a beam beneath the stalled ride. 

Jenny Lagerstedt, a journalist present during the accident, reported hearing a metallic sound and seeing the roller coaster shake prior to the incident.  The 2600 foot long Jetline had a maximum height of 98 feet and a top speed of 56 mph, and opened in 1988, with renovations in 2000.

A criminal investigation has been launched to determine if charges, such as involuntary manslaughter, are warranted. The amusement park has been evacuated and will remain closed for a week to allow for a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the tragic event.