A young boy’s daring walk on a closed monorail track at Hersheypark had a happy ending despite the danger, but how he was able to get there raised alarming questions about security measures in place.
Story Highlights
- A young boy was seen walking along an elevated monorail track at Hersheypark.
- The monorail was closed but the boy accessed the area, raising safety concerns.
- Bystanders and staff coordinated a rescue, highlighting public vigilance.
- The incident prompts scrutiny of amusement park safety protocols.
Incident Overview: Boy on Monorail Track
At Hersheypark in Pennsylvania, a young boy was surprisingly found walking on the closed Capital BlueCross Monorail track, which is elevated at least 20 feet above the ground. The monorail was not in operation at the time, yet the boy managed to bypass secured barriers and enter the track area. This incident, captured on video and widely shared, has sparked a conversation about the adequacy of safety measures in place at amusement parks.
The boy was reported missing shortly after 5:00 p.m., having been separated from his parents. During the subsequent search, he was discovered on the monorail track. Approximately 20 minutes after being reported missing, a bystander climbed onto the track to rescue him with the help of another guest. The child was safely brought down and reunited with his family, unharmed, before 5:30 p.m.
Safety Concerns and Public Response
The incident has raised concerns about how the boy was able to access the monorail track despite it being closed and secured. Hersheypark has emphasized that the monorail was indeed closed, with chained entrances and barricaded turnstiles. However, this event has prompted a broader discussion about the effectiveness of such security measures and the potential need for more robust protocols to prevent unauthorized access to restricted areas.
Hersheypark issued a statement expressing gratitude for the vigilance of guests and staff and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining high safety standards. The quick and coordinated response by park guests and staff underscores the importance of public vigilance in emergency situations.
Implications for Amusement Park Safety
The incident at Hersheypark is likely to have lasting implications for the amusement park industry. It highlights the need for a reassessment of safety measures, especially concerning closed rides and areas, to ensure the safety of all visitors. The viral spread of the rescue video has drawn significant public and media attention, potentially influencing future policies and industry standards.
Dramatic video shows boy balancing 100-ft above panicked crowd at Hersheypark https://t.co/8lFVVaUlX4
— FOX Business (@FoxBusiness) September 1, 2025
In the broader context, amusement parks may face increased scrutiny and calls for stringent safety audits to prevent similar incidents. This event serves as a reminder of the critical role that both park management and patrons play in ensuring safety and responding to emergencies effectively.
