Colorado officials are investigating a serious accident that occurred on Monday, August 17, on the Rocky Mountain Coaster at Copper Mountain Resort. Nicki Parker, a 60‑year‑old resident of Texas, was ejected from her seat despite remaining buckled, and was dragged for 20‑30 seconds along the coaster track.
According to attorney Trent Ongert of Bloch Ongert Injury Law, Parker’s husband, who was riding directly behind her, tried to assist but was unable to reach her until rescue crews arrived. “She was lying on the track. He then had to get her out because there was nobody, no way to get to her,” Ongert said. The coaster is situated about 15‑20 feet above ground, adding to the danger of the incident.
Injuries and medical response
Parker sustained a broken rib, a collapsed lung, a traumatic brain injury, and a dislocated shoulder that required surgery. She remains hospitalized as doctors treat her injuries.
Resort and regulatory response
Copper Mountain Resort issued a statement expressing sympathy for Parker and wishing her a speedy recovery. The resort also confirmed that the coaster has been shut down while the Colorado Division of Oil and Public Safety’s Amusement Rides and Devices Program conducts its investigation.
The agency said, “We can confirm our Division of Oil & Public Safety is investigating an incident that happened on Copper Mountain’s Rocky Mountain Coaster on Monday, August 17, 2026. One rider was injured in the incident. The Rocky Mountain Coaster is currently closed while the investigation continues.”
Operators of a similar alpine coaster at the nearby Purgatory Resort have also been ordered to close pending the outcome of the investigation. The state agency has requested that the coaster’s manufacturer issue a safety bulletin and share it with all affected operators.
Safety signage and future steps
A sign posted along the ride warns that the cart will stop and beep if the seat belt is disconnected. The incident has raised questions about the effectiveness of that safety system, prompting calls for a thorough review of coaster safety protocols.
The Rocky Mountain Coaster, which spans 5,800 feet and bills itself as the second‑longest alpine coaster in North America, remains closed pending the investigation’s findings.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
