Accident on Hopi Hari's Montezum Sparks Prosecutor Investigation

The case of Júlia Bossoni, who lost motor function after her second ride on Montezum, has drawn national attention and prompted an investigation by the São Paulo State Public Prosecutor's Office. The incident rekindles discussions about the risks associated with thrill rides.

What happened to the young woman on Montezum

Júlia and João Pedro Bossoni visited Hopi Hari in Vinhedo and rode Montezum twice on the same day. On the second ride, cameras showed the young woman conscious during the ascent, but upon returning to the platform she appeared unconscious and having seizures. Park staff removed her within six minutes and transported her to Santa Casa de Vinhedo.

Diagnosis and treatment of Júlia Bossoni

In the ICU, tests revealed intracranial hemorrhage and cerebral edema. Neurosurgeon Victor Batistela performed a decompressive craniectomy, a procedure that removes part of the skull to relieve swelling. The medical report identified a traumatic brain injury caused by a contrecoup mechanism—sudden acceleration, deceleration, and rotation of the head during the ride.

History of injuries on Montezum

Júlia was not the first victim. In 2018, Nathalia Assenjo Motta suffered a vertebral dislocation on the same ride, requiring cervical pins and rods. In 2014, Márcio, then a motorcycle courier, became quadriplegic after riding the roller coaster and died in 2023 from complications of a urinary tract infection. A consumer assessment recorded around 40 reports of neck pain, knee injuries, and broken ribs over the past two years.

Hopi Hari's position and certifications

The park states that Montezum holds international certification from the TÜV Nord group and that inspections are conducted annually, in accordance with standard ABNT NBR 15926-2023. Signs and audio announcements warn of restrictions for people with spinal issues, pregnant women, and individuals with specific medical conditions. The Public Prosecutor's Office issued an opinion in August 2026 ruling out collective risk or design flaws in the attraction.

Investigations and legal actions

The São Paulo State Public Prosecutor's Office opened an investigation and requested a police forensic examination of Montezum to verify the condition of the ride at the time of the accident. Júlia's family filed a lawsuit seeking an expert evaluation to clarify the circumstances and establish accountability. To date, the investigation remains ongoing.

Consequences for the victim and family support

Júlia spent 57 days in the hospital and has undergone seven surgeries. She lost movement on her left side, has difficulty speaking, and experiences blurred memories. Her mother, Danielle Rimolli, and João Pedro take turns caring for her, with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy three times a week. The family reports that the park covered medical expenses and provided insurance to the family.

With information from G1, Diário do Centro do Mundo.