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On This Day: January 7, 1980 - Tragic Accident on Disneyland’s PeopleMover

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Pete

Pete

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On this day, January 7, 1980, tragedy struck at Disneyland when an 18-year-old boy was crushed and killed while attempting to jump from one PeopleMover car to another. The PeopleMover, a slow-moving transportation ride in Tomorrowland, was known for its scenic views and relaxed pace.

The young man lost his footing during the jump and fell onto the track, where he was caught under the oncoming cars. Despite the ride’s safety measures, this tragic incident highlighted the risks of unsafe behavior on amusement park rides.

This accident served as a somber reminder of the importance of following ride safety rules, and it remains one of the most notable incidents in Disneyland’s history.

Fun Fact: The PeopleMover operated in Disneyland from 1967 to 1995 and was later replaced by Rocket Rods, though the latter also faced issues and closed permanently in 2001.

Do you remember hearing about this tragic incident? What are your thoughts on ride safety and the importance of following guidelines at theme parks?
 
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