Particle.news
Download on the App Store

COTA ‘Tilt’ Coaster Stalls Mid-Descent, Leaving Two Riders Dangling for About an Hour

COTA attributes the stoppage to a sensor-triggered delay.

Overview

  • Matthew Cantu, 24, and Nicholas Sanchez, 20, were left facing downward about 130 feet up on the Circuit Breaker at Austin’s Circuit of the Americas.
  • After roughly 30–36 minutes without clear updates, relatives called 911; Austin-Travis County EMS arrived about 10 minutes later and cleared the scene around 10:11 p.m.
  • Medics evaluated the men for lightheadedness, symptoms consistent with blood pooling, and upper‑leg numbness, and both declined transport after being discharged on site.
  • COTA says a sensor triggered a ride delay and that staff resolved the issue, allowing the vehicle to continue without further incident.
  • The riders and their representative report conflicting on‑site explanations, describe staff making light of the situation, and say they have received no follow‑up from COTA.