Ocean City, New Jersey thrill ride stalls, trapping riders upside down

The Wipe Out ride at Playland’s Castaway Cove on the Ocean City Boardwalk malfunctioned on July 5, leaving riders suspended upside down for about five to seven minutes. Video of the incident showed passengers hanging in mid‑air while bystanders on the ground tried to calm them, with one person repeatedly saying, “You’re alright, honey.” Safety harnesses held, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the stoppage was not immediately known. Local authorities, including the Ocean City Fire Department, Police Department and the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, were contacted for comment.

The incident quickly spread on social media, prompting both concern and jokes about the ride’s safety restraints.