News Summary
An 18-year-old man faces trespassing charges after climbing the Tempesto roller coaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg to retrieve his lost cell phone. He was stranded 100 feet in the air, prompting a rescue operation by local fire and police services. Fortunately, he was rescued without injuries, while park operations continued as normal. The incident serves as a reminder of safety protocols in amusement parks and the potential legal consequences of reckless actions.
Williamsburg – An 18-year-old man named Charles Parker from Woodbridge is facing a trespassing charge following an unusual incident at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. The incident occurred on a Sunday night at approximately 9:30 p.m., when Parker climbed the Tempesto launch coaster in an attempt to retrieve his cell phone.
Parker’s adventure took him about 100 feet above the ground on the ride, during which he became stranded at a height that posed a significant safety concern. In response to the emergency, both the James City County Fire and Police Departments were summoned to assist in the rescue operation.
Firefighters from the James City County Fire Department successfully rescued Parker, who fortunately did not suffer any injuries as a result of the incident. Despite the commotion, Busch Gardens Williamsburg remained open to the public throughout the event, allowing guests to continue enjoying the park’s attractions.
Incident Details
The events unfolded when Parker decided to retrieve his lost cell phone, leading him to climb one of the amusement park’s signature rides. This reckless decision not only endangered his safety but also necessitated the involvement of emergency services to safely bring him down.
Emergency Response
The quick response from local emergency services ensured that Parker was safely rescued without any injuries. The incident highlights the potential dangers associated with climbing structures in amusement parks, which are designed for rides and not for public access. The combined efforts of the James City County Fire and Police Departments emphasized the importance of trained responders in critical situations.
Park Operations
Busch Gardens Williamsburg maintained normal operations during the incident, allowing visitors to partake in other attractions and activities. Park representatives emphasized that safety is a top priority, and the situation was managed swiftly to prevent further incidents or disruptions.
Background Context
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is known for its thrilling rides and beautiful scenery, attracting thrill-seekers and families alike. The park features various attractions, including the Tempesto coaster, which is recognized for its high-speed launches and dramatic drops. This incident comes as a reminder of the importance of following park rules and safety regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
As the investigation continues, Charles Parker faces legal consequences for his actions. Trespassing charges can carry significant fines or penalties, particularly when involving emergency response resources.
Overall, while the outcome was fortunate and no injuries were reported, the incident serves as a cautionary tale about safety in amusement parks and the necessity of adhering to posted guidelines and regulations to guarantee a safe environment for everyone.
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Additional Resources
- WAVY: 18-Year-Old Charged with Trespassing at Busch Gardens
- Wikipedia: Amusement Park
- 13 News Now: Woodbridge Teen Faces Charges at Busch Gardens
- Google Search: Roller Coaster Safety
- Tri-City Herald: National News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Safety
- Patch: Woodbridge Man Climbs Roller Coaster
- Google News: Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
