Coaster strands riders on final weekend

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SAN ANTONIO, Aug. 4 (UPI) -- On its final weekend of operation, a roller coaster in Texas experienced technical difficulties and left riders stranded for 45 minutes, officials said.

The Rattler at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, which has been billed at the world's fastest, tallest wooden roller coaster, is being decommissioned after a 20-year run, the San Antonio (Texas) Express-News reported.

Friday, about 20 riders were directed to walk down from the coaster after being stranded atop the ride for nearly 45 minutes, park officials said.

"We are currently experiencing technical difficulties," riders were told. Later, a park employee announced, "We are very sorry for this inconvenience, but please exit the ride."

Park spokeswoman Sydne Purvis said sometimes the ride's computerized safety override system causes it to stop.

"There are redundant safety systems," Purvis said. "They're designed to bring the train to a smooth, safe stop. Occasionally, they stop the train, and if it can't be re-started, we walk the folks down."

Riders were never in danger, she said, adding that after the glitch was fixed, the coaster resumed normal operation.