LEGOLAND launches ‘full investigation’ after roller coaster crash injures 31 people

LEGOLAND Germany says it’s launched a ‘full investigation’ after two Fire Dragon roller coaster trains collided, leaving 31 people injured.

The incident occurred yesterday when one coaster train stopped in the ride’s station, and a second train ‘did not stop completely for until now unknown reasons and made impact’, LEGOLAND Germany told the BBC. Early reports indicated at least 34 people had suffered injuries as a result, but LEGOLAND says that of the 38 park visitors on the ride at the time, only 31 suffered ‘minor injuries’.

A total of 14 people went to hospital for ‘further observation’, while one person apparently required treatment. According to LEGOLAND, the ride will be closed indefinitely while a ‘full investigation’ takes place. Three helicopters were sent to the scene, while two fire engines helped to evacuate riders still trapped on the coaster. The Bavarian Red Cross – which was involved in the response efforts – described the accident as ‘quite mild’.

“The staff immediately followed well-rehearsed safety procedures and guests were immediately evacuated from the trains and attended by trained resort staff,” the park shared in a statement. “LEGOLAND emergency personnel as well as paramedics, doctors, the police and the fire fighters were at [the] site within [a] few minutes. The park area was evacuated.”

LEGOLAND Deutschland Resort in Günzburg is closed today, but will reopen to guests tomorrow. The Fire Dragon coaster – which the LEGOLAND website says is a ‘fast-paced roller coaster for the whole family’ – will remain closed for the foreseeable future, however. Dragon-themed coasters are a staple of LEGOLAND parks around the world, including Florida, California, Windsor and Malaysia.

“We want to thank all emergency personnel showing great commitment at site today and we want to wish a quick recovery to everyone involved,” added LEGOLAND Germany’s divisional director Manuela Stone.

Featured image: LEGOLAND

Support the work that Brick Fanatics does by purchasing your LEGO using our affiliate links.