What Happened on the Desperado Roller Coaster
On April 21, 2022, a fatal incident occurred on the Desperado roller coaster at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois. A train collided with another that was stopped on the lift hill due to a power outage, resulting in one occupant dying and several others injured. This overview provides verified details, context on Ride Controls and procedures, and how the event has shaped policy and safety communication for similar coasters.
Incident Overview and Immediate Response
Sequence of Events
The collision happened during a restart procedure after the preceding train completed its cycle. The stopped train on the lift hill was there because of a loss of power, which prevented the train from clearing the lift. While the ride was being restarted, an automatic block signal was cleared, and a following train was dispatched into the same section, leading to a rear-end impact near the top of the lift hill. Riders on the second train reported sudden deceleration and loud noises at the moment of collision.
Emergency and Medical Response
Emergency crews were dispatched promptly; the deceased was transported to a hospital and later pronounced dead. Multiple riders from both trains received medical evaluation on-site for injuries ranging from minor to moderate. The park temporarily closed the coaster and coordinated with authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, preserve evidence, and support affected guests.
Regulatory Findings and Determined Cause
Investigation Outcomes
Regulatory and independent investigations determined that the root cause involved a combination of a blocked section being cleared for movement while the stopped train remained on the lift hill. Failures in communication, verification of train positions, and adherence to lockout/tagout and power restoration procedures contributed to the collision. Reports highlighted that standard Ride Controls safeguards were not fully effective under the specific conditions of the power loss and restart scenario.
Contributing Factors Summary
- Loss of power to the lift hill during normal operation
- Restart procedure allowed dispatch into an occupied section
- Insufficient verification of train occupancy before clearing signals
- Human factors and procedural gaps in block control
Safety Changes and Industry Response
Following the incident, Six Flags and industry groups reviewed procedures for restarting coasters after power interruptions. Enhanced guidance now emphasizes stricter verification of train positions, maintaining Ride Controls during power anomalies, and additional staff training for block system operations. Some parks implemented temporary ride pauses for inspections and updated emergency action plans to better coordinate with first responders.
Legal, Insurance, and Financial Context
The family of the deceased filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the park and ride manufacturer, alleging negligence in maintenance and operational protocols. Settlement discussions eventually led to confidential agreements. While exact figures are often protected by non-disclosure, industry estimates suggest such cases can involve seven-figure payouts, covering compensatory and, in some jurisdictions, punitive damages. The park’s insurance carrier typically manages these resolutions as part of broader risk mitigation strategies.
Long-Term Implications for Amusement Safety and Policy
Regulatory and Standards Updates
Regulators and standards organizations revisited guidance on block signaling, lift hill protections, and Ride Controls behavior during power disturbances. Recommendations included clearer check-list requirements before restart, enhanced training for operators, and improved documentation of incident investigations to share best practices across the industry.
Operational Best Practices
Many parks updated operating manuals to require dual verification of block sections, stricter access controls during power issues, and routine drills for staff handling ride aborts. These measures aim to prevent similar occurrences and reinforce a culture where safety protocols are followed precisely, even during exceptional conditions.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Incident | April 21, 2022 | Official reports and news archives |
| Location | Six Flags Great America, Gurnee, Illinois, USA | Park and regulatory filings |
| Ride Name | Desperado (wooden coaster) | Manufacturer and park records |
| Fatalities | 1 | Coroner and regulatory reports |
| Injuries | Multiple (ranging from minor to moderate) | Emergency and hospital records |
| Root Cause | Collision due to restart with stopped train on lift hill after power loss | Regulatory investigation summaries |
| Regulatory Outcome | Fines and mandated procedural updates | Regulator announcements |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What safety protocols changed after this incident? Parks now emphasize dual verification of train occupancy, restricted restart procedures during power issues, and additional operator training on block control systems.
- Has the Desperado coaster reopened? The coaster returned to operation after inspections and updated procedures were implemented, consistent with regulatory approvals.
- Are similar coasters at risk of the same issue? While the specific combination of events was uncommon, guidelines now target any coaster with block signaling and lift hill power resilience to prevent mis-clearance.
Closure and Industry Outlook
The Desperado roller coaster death underscores the importance of robust procedures during abnormal operations and the role of Ride Controls in protecting guests. By learning from the incident, the amusement industry has strengthened training, clarified standards, and reinforced a commitment to continuous safety improvements. Ongoing collaboration between parks, manufacturers, and regulators helps reduce risk and maintain public confidence in liveable, well-managed attractions.