Woman Trapped Nearly an Hour Inside Pennsylvania Car Wash After System Malfunction
WAYNESBORO, Pa. — A routine visit to a local car wash turned into an unexpected ordeal for Felicia Sullivan when a system malfunction trapped her and her vehicle inside the Waynesboro Waterworks car wash for nearly an hour. Sullivan, a resident of Waynesboro, documented the incident on TikTok, capturing her efforts to escape and call for help as the automated system abruptly shut down mid-cycle, leaving her car coated in soap and the doors sealed shut.
According to Sullivan’s video, the emergency button inside the car wash, designed to halt operations and open the doors, was unresponsive, compounding her predicament. She attempted to alert staff by knocking on the doors and calling out, but was unable to get anyone’s attention. After several minutes, she contacted local law enforcement for assistance.
Police officers arrived promptly and, along with the car wash owner, managed to free Sullivan approximately 45 minutes after she became trapped. Despite the stressful situation, Sullivan reported that neither she nor her vehicle suffered any harm. The business owner apologized for the malfunction and offered Sullivan a stack of gift cards as a gesture of goodwill.
Incidents involving automated car wash systems, while rare, highlight the importance of reliable safety mechanisms and emergency protocols. The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry oversees safety standards for automated equipment, ensuring businesses comply with regulations designed to protect consumers. Consumers can find guidance on safe use of automated car washes on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration website.
Felicia Sullivan’s experience underscores the potential hazards when technology fails in everyday settings. The Waynesboro Waterworks car wash has since reviewed its system to prevent future malfunctions. Local authorities encourage customers to report any safety concerns immediately to the business and, if necessary, to emergency services.
For more information on consumer safety and reporting, the Federal Trade Commission provides resources on handling product and service issues. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers guidance on vehicle-related safety concerns, including those involving automated services.
Felicia Sullivan’s ordeal has drawn attention on social media, with many expressing relief at her safe release and commending her calm response during the incident. As automated systems become increasingly common, this event serves as a reminder of the need for robust safety features and prompt emergency response capabilities in public facilities.
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