When Thrill-Seeking Goes Wrong: The Xtreme Coaster Tragedy
The tragic incident that occurred on July 11, 2010, at the Blue Bayou Water Park/Dixie Landin’ Amusement Park in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has left a lasting impact on the community and the amusement park industry. Lindsay Zeno, a 21-year-old woman, lost her life after falling 30 feet from the Xtreme coaster, a ride that had been in operation for about three years. The incident sparked a wave of investigations and safety concerns, prompting discussions about the need for stricter regulations and safety measures in the amusement park industry.
The Xtreme coaster, also known as the “Looping Starship,” was a popular attraction at the Blue Bayou Water Park/Dixie Landin’ Amusement Park. It was a steel roller coaster that reached a height of 70 feet and had a maximum speed of 50 mph. The ride featured a loop that took riders upside down, as well as other thrilling elements such as drops and turns.
According to eyewitnesses, Lindsay Zeno was seated in the front row of the coaster when the accident occurred. As the ride was nearing the end of its cycle, Zeno’s restraint system failed, causing her to be ejected from the coaster and fall 30 feet to the ground. Despite the efforts of park staff and emergency responders, Zeno later died of the injuries she sustained.
