A ride was force to close at a US theme park when a roller coaster car derailed, leaving four injured.

The incident, which took place on Six Flags Magic Mountain’s ‘Ninja’, saw two taken to hospital, although “only minor injuries were caused”, according to park officials.

The coaster, which dangles riders 30 feet (9 metres) in the air, hit a tree branch, causing the derailment.

More than 20 riders were left trapped on the ride – built 25 years ago – for around three hours before they were rescued.

The accident happened the same day a teenager tragically lost his life after being thrown from a roller coaster at Terra Mitica in Benidorm, Spain. The US ride will remain closed while the accident is investigated, a park spokesperson said.

Two riders who injured their heads in the Six Flags incident are reportedly taking legal action against the park.