A teenage tourist has died after falling from a waterfall swing attraction in China in a horrifying incident that has sparked outrage online and renewed concerns over adventure park safety standards.
The tragedy happened at Maliuyan Adventure Park in Huaying, Sichuan Province, where the 16-year-old girl, identified only by her surname Liu, reportedly plunged nearly 168 metres into a canyon after her safety harness failed during the ride.
According to reports from Chinese media, the teenager repeatedly warned staff that her safety rope did not feel secure moments before the swing began moving. Video footage circulating online allegedly captured her saying the harness was “not tight enough” before the fatal fall.
Witnesses could be heard screaming as the ride suddenly malfunctioned near the edge of the platform. The harness attached to the teenager reportedly snapped or loosened as she crossed the barricade area, sending her plunging into the canyon below.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene and transported the girl to hospital, but she was pronounced dead on the way there.
Chinese authorities later confirmed the incident was being treated as a workplace safety liability accident caused by “enterprise negligence.” Investigators are now examining the adventure park and the employees responsible for operating the attraction.
The waterfall swing attraction had only reportedly opened to tourists two months ago as part of the Chongqing Adventure Camp tourism project. Visitors paid around 398 yuan, roughly AU$80, to access the scenic attraction known for its waterfalls, cliffs, caves, and canyon views.
Following the teenager’s death, the park was temporarily shut down while safety inspections and investigations continue.
The footage quickly went viral across Chinese social media platforms, drawing millions of views and intense criticism toward park operators. Many users questioned why the ride proceeded despite the teenager allegedly warning staff about the loose harness moments earlier.
The incident has also reignited broader concerns surrounding dangerous tourist attractions and thrill rides across Asia. In recent years, multiple deaths involving cliff swings, selfie accidents, and unsafe tourist infrastructure have made headlines around the world.
