Six Flags has temporarily closed nine roller coasters across six amusement parks nationwide following a fatal incident on the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia. The tragedy occurred shortly before 4 p.m. on Monday, resulting in the death of one man and injuries to several others, according to local authorities.
Detectives from the Cobb County Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit have launched an active investigation to determine how the incident happened. Witnesses reported that a man fell from the high-speed Goliath coaster, struck parts of the ride structure multiple times, and landed on the roof of a haunted house attraction positioned below.
The 210-second ride reaches speeds of up to 70 mph and a peak elevation of 200 feet. Following the accident, emergency personnel responded to the scene, and other passengers stranded on the lift hill were safely evacuated down stairways along the tracks. The park closed immediately after the event.
Six Flags Closes Similar Rides Nationwide
In response to the tragedy, Six Flags announced the temporary closure of nine similar roller coasters across several of its amusement parks out of an “abundance of caution.”
“The safety of our guests and team members remains one of our highest priorities,” a Six Flags spokesperson stated.
The impacted rides include:
- Raging Bull at Six Flags Great America in Illinois
- Nitro at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey
- Goliath at Six Flags Magic Mountain in California
- Leviathan and Behemoth at Canada’s Wonderland in Ontario
- Fury 325 and Thunder Striker at Carowinds in North Carolina
- Orion and Diamondback at Kings Island in Ohio
Community Impact and Safety Scrutiny
Cobb County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Lisa Cupid released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy. “I cannot imagine the horror the patrons and employees witnessed today, and my heart aches for the family who lost a loved one,” Cupid said, emphasizing the park’s major role in regional tourism.
The incident places renewed national scrutiny on amusement park safety protocols. It arrives just weeks after Six Flags Magic Mountain announced the permanent closure of its famous X2 roller coaster following investigative reports detailing a history of major injuries and lawsuits.
Authorities stated that additional information regarding the investigation at Six Flags Over Georgia will be released as facts are officially confirmed.
