Westchester County officials said a fire caused only minor damage to Playland's historic Dragon Coaster after flames broke out on the ride Saturday night.
The Rye Fire Department said crews were dispatched to the 97-year-old wooden coaster at 8:43 p.m. Saturday and brought the fire under control within about 15 minutes of arriving on scene.
Fire breaks out on Dragon Coaster
The Westchester County Cause and Origin Team is investigating the fire alongside county police. Officials said the cause remains under investigation, though Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said it appeared to be accidental and likely electrical in nature.
No injuries were reported, and county officials said the damage was slight and can be repaired. Playland had already closed for the season.
"We are
grateful to the Rye Fire Department for their quick response and for extinguishing the fire," Jenkins said in a statement issued Sunday. "Thankfully, the damage can be repaired by Playland's maintenance team and we expect that work to take place during the fall."
Dragon Coaster dates to 1929
The Playland Dragon Coaster opened in 1929 and is one of the oldest operating wooden roller coasters in North America.
Before the park's 2026 season, the coaster's steel frame and decorative dragon elements were refurbished as part of ongoing preservation efforts.
"We know how much the Dragon Coaster means to generations of Playland enthusiasts, and we appreciate the concern we have heard from so many Dragon Coaster fans. Rest assured: This Dragon will rise again for Playland's 99th season," Jenkins said.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Playland Dragon Coaster fire: What we know about damage, repairs
