Rod Chayko, now 65, was the only survivor of a horrific rollercoaster accident on June 14, 1986, at Galaxyland in West Edmonton Mall, Alberta, Canada. The crash killed three of the four passengers aboard The Mindbender, then the world's largest indoor triple-loop rollercoaster. Chayko has lived with guilt ever since.
The Accident
The carriage was traveling at 100 km/h when the wheel assembly came loose, causing the ride to veer violently. Lap bar restraints disengaged, throwing all four passengers onto the concrete floor below. Chayko's close friend David Sager died, along with engaged couple Tony Mandrusiak, 24, and Cindy Sims, 21.
Chayko recalled: “I remember feeling it sway and grabbing onto the handle. The next thing, I was landing on the ground.” He suffered life-changing injuries that caused daily pain for years, managed with medical marijuana even two decades later.
Aftermath and Guilt
Chayko told CBC News the crash was “an accident — plain and simple.” He added: “David, Tony and Cindy are dead, and it changed my life forever. I think about it every day.” He returned to the mall with his children and grandchildren, but the ride cast a shadow over each visit.
The Mindbender remained open until 2023, when it was permanently shut down. Chayko received an undisclosed settlement from the mall but said he is not “rich.” The mall continues to provide him with complimentary tickets to attractions.
Memorial Efforts
Chayko has urged the mall to install a memorial bench near the ride's former site. Staff offered to mount a plaque on an office wall, which he found unsatisfactory. He continues to advocate for a proper tribute to the victims.
