A heart-stopping moment unfolded at Hersheypark in Pennsylvania when a missing boy was seen walking alone on the Capital BlueCross Monorail track, about 20 feet above the ground. The terrifying incident occurred Saturday evening, August 30, and ended with a dramatic rescue by a quick-thinking park guest.
Get Critical News Out FastWhen seconds matter, your message must reach people now. Publish safety updates and community alerts across top outlets in minutes.
Launch Your Alert Powered by 24-7 Press ReleaseThe Terrifying Scene
Video shared online shows the child balancing on the elevated monorail track while shocked onlookers screamed below. Moments later, an unidentified man jumped onto the track, scooped the boy into his arms, and carried him back to safety as the crowd erupted in applause.
According to NBC News, the boy had been reported missing around 5 p.m. local time after becoming separated from his family. He somehow entered a closed monorail station and began walking along the tracks before being spotted by other guests.
Park Response
A spokesperson for Hersheypark confirmed that the ride was closed at the time, secured by a chained entrance and barricaded turnstile. “We are grateful for the vigilance of our guests and the swift response of our team, and we remain committed to maintaining the highest levels of guest safety throughout Hersheypark,” the spokesperson said.
The child was not injured, but the incident has raised concerns about how he gained access to the restricted area. The park has not released further details on additional safety measures but is reviewing the event.
Protect What Matters — Family Safety PicksMoments change fast. Get smart safety and emergency essentials that help you stay calm, prepared, and in control.
Shop trusted gear and save today. Peace of mind starts with one click.
See Today’s Safety Deals Powered by exclusive online offersPublic Reaction
The video has gone viral, with social media users praising the unidentified rescuer and questioning the park’s safety practices. “Thank God he saved that boy! Hershey sure does have some safety issues to deal with!” one commenter wrote. Another added, “What I love about this is it shows the common good in society. Everyone dropped what they were doing because they knew the most important thing was that child’s safety.”
Others expressed concern that such an accident was even possible. “How did that kid even get up there? Those tracks should be well secured so no one has access except park personnel,” one person wrote on social media.
What’s Next
The boy has since been reunited with his family, and no injuries were reported. The Consumer Product Safety Commission may review the incident as part of its oversight of amusement park safety. For now, Hersheypark is under public scrutiny as parents and visitors call for tighter security around closed rides to prevent another near-tragedy.
Disclosure: We may earn a commission when you make a purchase through the ads.