Man Struck by Utah Rollercoaster Alleges Permanent Disfigurement in Lagoon Lawsuit
In a lawsuit filed in August 2025 HVAC technician Steven Thorpe claims he was catapulted from a scissor lift when a test roller coaster at Lagoon Amusement Park struck it causing extensive injuries multiple surgeries lost wages and permanent disfigurement .
Overview
On August 8 2025 HVAC technician Steven Thorpe filed a lawsuit against Lagoon Amusement Park in Farmington Utah and other associated parties alleging catastrophic injuries from a rollercoaster accident that occurred two years earlier Thorpe claims that while working on the parks then unfinished Primordial roller coaster in August 2023 he was struck by a test vehicle resulting in severe trauma multiple surgeries and what he describes as permanent disfigurement .
The Incident
Thorpe states that he was atop a raised scissor lift helping troubleshoot malfunctioning air systems on the rides first floor According to his complaint the rollercoasters lighting unexpectedly shut off and a test vehicle was dispatched without sufficient warning Because he allegedly was not given the exact testing schedule Thorpe says he had no opportunity to move to safety .
Also Read : Vin Diesels Kids The Stories of Hania Vincent & Pauline — A Family Portrait
The test train collided with his lift causing it to tip violently Thorpe was thrown nearly 20 feet to the ground where he sustained devastating injuries .
Details of the Injury
- The lawsuit outlines the extent of Thorpes suffering .
- A fall of approximately 19–20 feet after the lift was struck .
- A month long hospitalization due to the severity of his wounds .
- Multiple surgeries to repair internal and external injuries.
- Ongoing physical and emotional trauma including claims of permanent disfigurement .
Beyond medical expenses Thorpe argues that the injuries left him with lost wages diminished future earnings and long term disability all of which he attributes to the defendants alleged negligence .
Legal Allegations
Thorpes amended complaint names Lagoon Corporation its parent company and the rides engineering contractor Actemium as defendants He alleges they failed to provide a clear and accurate testing schedule which he believes directly caused the accident .
His legal team accuses the park and contractors of failing in their duty of care arguing the incident was fully preventable .
On the defense side Lagoons attorneys firmly dispute the claims They maintain that Thorpe was adequately warned of testing times was subject to safety restrictions and knowingly disregarded these measures This conflicting testimony sets the stage for what may become a protracted courtroom battle .
Statements from Both Sides
Thorpes lawyer Judson Burton has emphasized the preventable nature of the accident pointing to his clients extended hospitalization and the lasting nature of his injuries as proof of the defendants negligence .
Representatives for Lagoon meanwhile have declined to provide further public comment citing the ongoing litigation .
Key Takeaways
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | August 9 2023 |
| Filing Date | August 8 2025 |
| Accident Cause | Roller coaster test vehicle struck technicians lift |
| Injuries | Multiple surgeries permanent disfigurement long hospitalization |
| Plaintiffs Claim | Negligence due to lack of clear test schedule |
| Defendants Stance | Thorpe was warned but ignored safety restrictions |
| Current Status | Litigation ongoing |
Conclusion
The case of Steven Thorpe vs Lagoon Amusement Park underscores the high risks faced by workers in amusement park construction and testing phases At its heart the lawsuit raises critical questions about workplace safety communication protocols and operational responsibility in environments where ride testing overlaps with active maintenance .
Thorpe insists the tragedy was preventable while Lagoons defense points to alleged disregard of safety rules The outcome of this case may set a precedent for future safety standards in the amusement park industry and highlight the importance of transparency during ride development and testing .