Two Oregon teenagers have been awarded a combined $550,000 in compensation following a traumatic incident in June 2024, when they were among 28 people trapped upside down for 25 minutes on a malfunctioning amusement park ride. Xitlali Gomez-Salais and Evie Yannotta, who were 13 and 14 at the time, sued Oaks Amusement Park and ride manufacturer Zamperla, seeking $2 million.
A jury ruled that Gomez-Salais and Yannotta, now 16, should each receive $275,000. Nine individuals filed lawsuits related to the incident, with seven reaching settlements for varying amounts.
During the civil trial, Yannotta described the extreme terror she felt, fearing the harnesses would fail and cause her to fall 100 feet. "Just the highest terror I ever felt," she testified, noting that other riders were experiencing distress, including vomiting. She also recalled park staff suggesting people leave while the riders remained suspended, which she interpreted as an attempt to shield onlookers from a potential disaster.
Gomez-Salais also shared her experience, stating, "I didn't want people to see me die." Both teenagers have since suffered from post-traumatic stress and anxiety. Yannotta's injuries reportedly impacted her ability to compete in martial arts events. Their attorney, Michael Fuller, noted that some victims required counseling, treatment, and medication, and some continue to experience fear of flying.
The cause of the AtmosFEAR ride's malfunction during its 360-degree cycle remains unclear. A spokesperson for Oaks Amusement Park stated, "We are grateful that all of the riders are safe, and this incident is now resolved. Safety is our top priority and we will continue to work with ride manufacturers and state inspectors to ensure rider safety." Jaime Gomez, Gomez-Salais' father, expressed a desire for "real answers and not excuses and deflections."
Oaks Amusement Park, which opened for its 121st season in March, attracts over 900,000 visitors annually.