Houston Rodeo Ride Malfunction Strands Riders Suspended in Air for Several Minutes

A thrilling amusement ride turned into a tense experience when a malfunction left riders suspended in mid-air at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in Texas. The incident was captured on video, showing the unsettling moments as the ride stalled.

Akil Strawder, who attended the event with his family, recounted the ordeal to Storyful. He mentioned that he and his cousins were left hanging for roughly 10 minutes, while his wife, struck by the unexpected turn of events, filmed the entire scene.

The ride in question is the Tango, offered by the Dutch company KMG Rides. On their website, they describe this attraction as a towering 23-meter-high ride that rotates around three different axes, providing an exhilarating experience.

The company highlights the ride’s unique “flying” sensation, made possible by its open gondolas. Each of the three gondolas can hold eight passengers and are designed to spin freely during the ride, adding to the thrill.

In related news, the Houston Rodeo has introduced a new dress code to address concerns over attire deemed “out of control.”

People are seen stuck on a ride at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in Texas.  (@iamindy4 via Storyful)

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and KMG Rides for comment. 

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo began in 1932 as the Houston Fat Stock Show and Livestock Exposition, created by local business people to promote the region’s cattle industry. 

The first event featured livestock exhibitions and a small rodeo. After a pause during World War II, the show expanded, adding entertainment and educational programs to broaden its appeal. 

TEXAS JUDGE WHO TRIED TO ACCESS VIP AREA AT HOUSTON RODEO CONCERN CLAIMS RACISM, SEXISM AT PLAY 

Several TikTok and Instagram videos criticized Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo guests who they said were dressed inappropriately. The organizers decided to take action. (Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo )

The show is scheduled to return in 2027; it typically occurs over 20 days between late February and mid-March at NRG Stadium, featuring concerts, livestock shows and carnival activities. 

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo says on its website that its mission is to promote “agriculture by hosting an annual, family-friendly experience that educates and entertains the public, supports Texas youth, showcases Western heritage and provides year-round educational support within the community.” 

A young attendee goes through an obstacle course during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.  (Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images)

“Since the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo began, more than $660 million has been committed to the youth of Texas and education. Each year, more than 800 scholarships are awarded to Texas students by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo,” it added. “As one of the largest scholarship providers in the U.S., the Rodeo has presented more than 22,000 scholarships valued at $660 million since 1932.”