Teen decapitated at theme park, police say

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ATLANTA, Georgia (CNN) -- A teenager died Saturday when he was decapitated at the Six Flags Over Georgia theme park outside Atlanta, authorities said.

The 17-year-old park visitor was killed after scaling two 6-foot fences around the Batman roller coaster, said a statement issued by park spokeswoman Hela Sheth. He was struck by the coaster and killed, she said.

"We do not know why this person was intent on gaining access to this restricted area," the statement said, noting that multiple signs are posted stating, "Danger Zone," "Do Not Enter" and "Authorized Personnel Only."

"Some witnesses have stated that the individual was trying to retrieve something he had lost," Sheth's statement said. "Others reported that he was trying to touch the ride. This is merely speculation at this point, and we are working with park visitors and local police to learn more."

No one on the ride was injured, she said.

Police said the incident occurred about 2 p.m.

The victim's family was at the park with him, Sheth said, and park representatives were with them Saturday evening.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family," she said.

[edit on 28-6-2008 by GlobalChanges]

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Existing thread

this seems like something that should belong on BTS.

btw thuggin, this topic was created before yours was.

Regardless of where it belongs, this thread was posted first.

This is a real tragedy and I'm sure that those who witnessed this death got more than they bargained for when they decided to go to Six Flags today.

One wonders why someone would risk so much for what appeared to be so little, but I guess we've all done some stupid things in our lives and maybe it's just dumb luck that separates those who live and those who die.

I bet the kids family is contacting lawyers as we speak. I doubt if they have a case, but they are probably trying real hard!

If they had managed to grab a rider and caused severe damage to an innocent person that would have been a far greater tragedy.

So the kid was trespassing into the park when he was killed?

One word for you:

AutoDarwination.

reply to post by Sonya610


There will be litigation, if Six Flags doesn't settle first.

That should not be the case, but it costs less to cough up a couple hundred grand than it does to defend against a lawsuit, especially when you factor in bad publicity.

There might be some parents who'd accept that their kid acted irresponsibly and suffered the consequences, but even they probably wouldn't feel that way after spending ten minutes with a lawyer.