(Newswire.net — February 22, 2021) — Disney World is the happiest place on Earth and a magical dream world for kids of all ages. The magic of Disney, however, can’t prevent every accident, and unfortunately, there have been serious injuries and even deaths in Disney parks and resorts. Examining these most shocking Disney World accidents gives us insight into the dark side of family fun.
Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular
Hollywood Studios’ Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular is a favorite of park guests, and the show re-creates some of the most mind-blowing stunt scenes from popular Indiana Jones films. Explosions, simulated shootings, and pyrotechnics are a key part of the show, and have, unfortunately, led to accidents and deaths. Several performers have been injured or killed while either rehearsing or performing in the show. One performer was injured by a malfunctioning trap door, while another died of a head injury while rehearsing a tumble roll. Still another performer died after falling 25 feet when a harness snapped.
Mission: Space
In June 2005 a 4-year-old boy died after riding Mission: Space, an intergalactic themed ride in Magic Kingdom. The cause of death was listed as an apparent heart attack. A year later, another guest, a 49-year old woman became ill after riding the same ride. She complained of nausea and headache and was taken to a nearby hospital. She died the following day.
Between June 2005 and June 2006, paramedics treated 194 guests who had ridden Mission: Space. The guests complained of chest pains, difficulty breathing, and irregular heartbeats. Twenty-five of the guests passed out while on the ride. In response, Disney revamped the ride and offered a less intense option called “Green Team,” while keeping the more intense version.
Beauty and The Beast Parade Float
On February 11, 2004, 38-year old cast member Javier Cruz died after being run over by the Beauty and the Beast parade float. At the time of the accident, he was dressed as Pluto. No guests witnessed the incident.
The Seven Seas Lagoon
A two-year-old boy was killed at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa in the Seven Seas Lagoon when an alligator emerged from the water and dragged him under, killing him. The boy’s body was later found, and authorities determined that the cause of death was drowning. Disney later posted signs warning guests of potential alligator activity and removed several comical references to alligators in some of its stage shows and attractions.
It’s A Small World Ride
A 6-year-old girl suffered collapsed lungs, a broken rib, and a broken arm while riding on the popular It’s A Small World Ride. She became pinned between the boat and dock while boarding the ride and was taken to a local hospital.
Disney World Fireworks
The Disney World fireworks is a crowd favorite but people have been injured in fireworks incidents over the years. During the New Year’s Eve display in 1999, six people were burned when the pyrotechnics exploded near them.
Animal Kingdom’s Expedition Everest
The hits kept coming, and the following year, in 2007, a 44-year-old guest died after suffering a heart attack on Animal Kingdom’s Expedition Everest roller coaster. While cast members tried to save him, there were no defibrillators available to restart his heart.
There have been several incidents involving the monorail, shuttle buses, and trams. A 21-year old monorail driver was killed when a track malfunctioned and sent another train crashing into his.
Bottom Line
Accidents can happen anywhere, even at Walt Disney World. The company is responsible for making sure each guest has a safe experience and is tasked with eliminating conditions contributing to slip and falls and other injuries. If you have been injured while visiting an amusement park, it is important to understand that these parks have an obligation to keep you safe. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Call us today for a free consultation.