One individual has passed away and multiple others sustained injuries during an incident involving a roller-coaster at Six Flags in Georgia on Monday afternoon, as confirmed by authorities. Details on the cause of the death and injuries at Six Flags Over Georgia, located approximately 25 kilometers northwest of Atlanta, have not been disclosed. The Cobb County Police Department’s major crimes unit is conducting an investigation into the matter.
A representative from Six Flags mentioned that the park and local law enforcement responded promptly and are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation. Expressing sadness over the guest incident, the spokesperson conveyed their deep condolences.
While the roller-coaster involved was not specifically identified by authorities or Six Flags, local TV stations aired footage of passengers being evacuated from the Goliath coaster. This roller-coaster, operational since 2006, boasts top speeds of around 113 km/h and heights of 61 meters, according to the park’s website. Riders experience sharp turns and thrilling hills during the approximately 3-1/2 minute ride.
In a statement, Lisa Cupid, chair of the Cobb County Board of Commissioners, expressed sympathy for the witnesses and family affected by the tragic event. She confirmed that the next of kin has been notified. Cupid highlighted the significance of the amusement park in the county’s tourism and its role in attracting visitors from the southeastern region.
This recent fatality marks at least the seventh death at the Georgia park, including a previous incident in 2006 where a man likely suffered a heart attack while on the Goliath coaster. Additionally, less than two weeks ago, Six Flags Magic Mountain in Southern California announced the retirement of the X2 roller-coaster amidst legal actions alleging severe brain injuries caused by the ride. The park had resolved a wrongful death lawsuit from the family of a 22-year-old who passed away after riding the coaster in 2022.
In a separate incident last year, a 32-year-old man lost his life after riding a high-speed roller-coaster at the Universal Epic Universe theme park in Florida. The cause of death was determined to be accidental due to blunt impact injuries.
Overall, the community is reeling from the tragic events at Six Flags, a venue cherished by families for creating cherished memories over the years.
