Woman Injured on Colorado Roller Coaster

A 60-year-old woman experienced severe injuries on a Colorado roller coaster, according to reports and her legal representatives. Nicki Parker, from Texas, suffered a broken rib, collapsed lung, traumatic brain injury, and dislocated shoulder requiring surgery. Her attorney states she was ejected from her seat and dragged along the track.

Parker’s attorney, Trent Ongert from Bloch Ongert Injury Law, explained, “It was actually wrapped around her and pulled her, and she was dragged along the track as it went down.”

Her husband, riding behind her, tried to assist by getting her off the track. The roller coaster stood 15 to 20 feet above the ground, making the situation difficult. Parker remains in the hospital due to her injuries.

Safety measures were reportedly ineffective, as the ride’s warning states that the “cart will stop and beep” if a seat belt becomes disconnected. Colorado’s Division of Oil and Public Safety’s Amusement Rides and Devices Program is investigating the incident. They confirmed the event occurred on August 17, 2026, at Copper Mountain Resort. The roller coaster is currently closed as the investigation proceeds.

The agency instructed the manufacturer to issue a safety bulletin to operators. Another similar ride at Purgatory Resort is also temporarily closed. Information related to the investigation will remain confidential until its conclusion.

The Rocky Mountain Coaster, noted for being 5,800 feet long and the “2nd longest alpine coaster in North America,” has ceased operations according to its website.

The resort expressed their concern, stating, “Our thoughts are with the guest, and we wish them a speedy recovery,” through a press release.