An accident occurred on the 12th at Six Flags Over Georgia, located about 10 miles west of downtown Atlanta; a man fell from the “Goliath” roller coaster, resulting in one fatality and injuries to others.
NBC News reported that the Cobb County Department of Emergency Communications confirmed the fatal incident at the amusement park outside Atlanta but could not immediately provide further details.
Cobb County Police Officer E.D. Smith stated that the accident happened shortly before 4 p.m., leaving several others injured, and the department’s Major Crimes Unit has launched an investigation. At least two witnesses reported seeing the man strike parts of the ride’s structure multiple times before hitting the ground. One witness claimed, “As he fell, he hit the car three times.”
Witness Logan Conner said he and his fiancée were riding the attraction when it happened and saw the man come out of his seat on the “Goliath” roller coaster: “The man started flying sideways through the air. We even made direct eye contact with him.” Another witness stated that the man had been seated next to a child, and the man’s blood even splattered onto the car they were riding in. Video footage showed passengers exiting the cars after the roller coaster came to an emergency stop during the ride.
A park spokesperson stated, “We are deeply saddened by the guest accident that occurred at the park today. We extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the guest’s family, friends, and loved ones.” The spokesperson added that the park is assisting guests and employees affected by the incident and noted that, out of respect for the family’s privacy, no further details would be released at this time.
“Goliath” was designed and built by the Swiss firm Bolliger & Mabillard Consulting Engineers and opened in 2006. This ride features a drop height of over 200 feet and is classified as a hyper coaster.