Southwick's Zoo blames Skyfari ride malfunction on safety system

A mechanical issue left 32 guests stranded on the Skyfari Sky Ride at Southwick's Zoo in Mendon, Massachusetts, on Monday. The safety system activated, stopping the gondolas, and all guests were rescued within an hour by zoo staff and first responders. Betsy Brewer, co-owner of the zoo, affirmed that the ride is regularly maintained, with checks conducted every three hours. Following a similar incident in July 2022, where an oil leak caused a shutdown, the zoo developed an emergency response plan. The safety of guests remains the zoo's highest priority, and officials expressed appreciation for the patience of those involved.

The cause of the recent safety system activation is under investigation, and the zoo aims to ensure such incidents do not recur. The Skyfari ride has been in operation since 2007 and has faced similar issues in the past. Zoo officials continue to stress the importance of safety and routine maintenance.