Busch Gardens in Tampa shuts rapids ride after fatal Aussie incident

TAMPA, Fla. -- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in Florida has decided to close a river rapids ride after four people were killed on a similar water ride at an amusement park in Australia.

News outlets report Busch Gardens officials say the Congo River Rapids ride was shut down Tuesday “out of an abundance of caution” while they work to understand what happened in Australia.

Officials there say two men and two women died while on the Thunder River Rapids ride after it malfunctioned at Dreamworld, a popular theme park on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

The Thunder River Rapids ride, which Busch Gardens officials say is similar to the Congo River Rapids ride, whisks riders in circular rafts along a fast-moving, man-made river, with a conveyor belt helping move the rafts through the water.

The Busch Gardens ride is made by the same manufacturer as the one in Australia, reports CBS Tampa affiliate WTSP-TV.

According to WTSP, Busch Gardens said in a statement, “Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those involved in the tragic incident at the Dreamworld park. The safety of guests and team members continues to be Busch Gardens’ number one priority.

“All ride attractions are inspected daily by trained technicians to ensure they are operating properly and meet all safety guidelines set forth by state agencies and well as the ride manufacturers.”