PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — After being hailed as the world's fastest wooden roller coaster at its grand opening just last week, Dollywood's Lightning Rod was brought to an abrupt stop this weekend.
The Pigeon Forge amusement park posted a notice on their website Sunday stating that the new roller coaster would be shut down temporarily due to a nation-wide mechanical recall.
According to a Dollywood spokesman, the manufacturer of the roller coaster, Rocky Mountain Construction, recalled a mechanical part and ordered all amusement parks that carry their rides to shut them down until further notice.
"We aren't sure how long Lightning Rod will be closed for, but as soon as we receive the part we will expedite the process of replacing it to get up and running as soon as possible," said Peter Owens, Dollywood Director of Media/Public Relations.
The mechanical recall does not affect any of the other seven roller-coasters or any other attractions located in the park.
The Lightning Rod has been marketed as the world's fastest wooden roller-coaster, propelling guests at top speeds of more than 70 miles an hour and has been labeled as one of the most anticipated thrill rides of 2016 by USA TODAY.
Lightning Rod opened to the public last Monday, June 13 after a nearly three-week test rehearsal starting in May. Park officials said they hope to have the ride up and running again soon.
