News: Changes planned for Rye's Mind Scrambler

Posted at 8:46 PM EDT (0046 GMT)

Jun. 3rd, 2004 -- The Mind Scrambler at Rye's Playland will have seatbelts added, more lights inside the ride structure itself, and a second operator when it reopens. Despite the accident (and the changes) the park was not cited for any violations on the accident and the ride improvements are voluntary and not being required by the state.

The Mind Scrambler spins riders in a darkened tent to loud music and flashing lights. This is believed to be one of the reasons that the ride operator was not aware that 7-year-old Stephanie Dieudonne had wiggled out of her restraint and was kneeling on the seat. She met all the ride requirements including height and age.

Other changes to the ride include an emergency stop button and safety instructions being displayed in glow in the dark paint so that they are easier to read. Rye has also hired a safety specialist to review all the rides in the park.

For more information, see Mercury News.