One person has died and several others have been injured following an incident at Six Flags Over Georgia, police said.
The incident took place shortly before 4pm on Monday at the amusement park in Cobb County, Georgia. The identity of the deceased guest has not been released, although officials said next of kin had been informed.
Authorities have not said which attraction was involved. However, the park’s Goliath roller coaster was closed, with riders seen being evacuated from its highest hill using an emergency staircase.
Six Flags said it was “deeply saddened” by the incident and was supporting affected guests and staff.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the guest’s family, friends, and loved ones,” a company spokesperson said. “The park team and local authorities responded immediately, and we are cooperating fully with local authorities as they complete their investigation.”
Sherry Sutton said her children had ridden Goliath about 20 minutes before the incident. She said visitors left in a calm and orderly way after an announcement that the park was closing.
“Please leave. The park is now closed,” Sutton recalled hearing faintly beneath the park’s music.
Mableton mayor Michael Owens said the city’s public safety director was coordinating with Cobb County police and Six Flags.
Lisa Cupid, chairwoman of the Cobb County Board of Commissioners, said: “I cannot imagine the horror the patrons and employees witnessed today, and my heart aches for the family who lost a loved one.”
Goliath opened in 2006 and reaches a height of 200ft, with a 170ft drop and speeds of up to 70mph. A man suffered what was believed to be a heart attack on the ride that year, according to the Doan Law Firm, which tracks amusement park accidents and represents victims.
