British Roller Coaster Accident Injures 29

Staffordshire, UK -- Four people were transported to a local hospital and twenty-five others treated for minor cuts and bruises after a ride at the British theme park malfunctioned Thursday. The accident happened on the Runaway Mine Train ride at Alton Towers in Staffordshire.

A portion of the train detached from the rest and rolled backwards into the rear, said Alton Towers spokesperson.

A total of 46 passengers were on board at the time of the incident. According to reports it took 40 minutes to empty the train.

Health and safety inspectors were investigating the incident and the ride will remain closed until they determine the cause.

Runaway Mine Train is an electric powered roller coaster. This type of roller coaster does not use gravity to propel it, lacks any significant drops or hills and has a single train. The ride opened in 1992.