SeaWorld San Antonio is facing a lawsuit after a guest claims he suffered serious back injuries while riding the park’s Steel Eel roller coaster in June 2025.
According to KSAT 12 News, Sterling Kelly filed the lawsuit on September 1, 2026, alleging negligence by SeaWorld of Texas, LLC.
The lawsuit claims that while Kelly was visiting the park with his grandson, an employee initially secured his restraint bar too tightly. After Kelly complained, the employee allegedly loosened the restraint excessively, causing him to be thrown around during the ride.
Kelly claims he experienced immediate back pain during the coaster’s drops and turns and required assistance from park employees to exit the ride. The lawsuit alleges lasting physical injuries, medical expenses, and loss of earning capacity.
Kelly is seeking damages and has requested a jury trial.
As of October 8, KSAT reported that SeaWorld San Antonio had not responded to its request for comment.
The allegations have not been proven in court.
Source: KSAT 12 News, reporting by Andrea K. Moreno and Daniela Ibarra.
