Updated: July 8th, 2008 05:26 PM EDT
Teen Killed by Georgia Six Flags Batman Ride
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AUSTELL, Ga. --
A 17-year-old park visitor was struck and killed Saturday by the Batman roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia.
The incident, which happened at approximately 2 p.m., occurred when the teenager jumped over a fence labeled danger zone, said Hela Sheth, a spokeswoman for the park.
The victim has been identified as 17-year-old Asia Leeshawn Ferguson of Springfield, South Carolina. Ferguson was part of a group visiting the park from Oakey Springs Baptist Church in Springfield, authorities said.
We do not know why this person was intent on gaining access to this restricted area, Sheth said in a written statement. Multiple signs clearly state Do Not Enter and Authorized Personnel Only," said Sheth.
Some witnesses have stated that the teen was trying to retrieve a hat. 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," said Sheth.
An off-duty police officer from nearby Marietta witnessed the accident and summoned help, said Six Flags officials in a statement. Park security and Cobb County emergency personnel arrived quickly, and the medical examiner confirmed that the victim was killed on impact, the statement said.
Batman The Ride, known for its 360-degree twist, produces a feeling of weightlessness.
The twisting roller coaster, which has ski-lift-like seats, zips along 2,693 feet of track at a top speed of 50 mph.
The high-flying ride takes thrill-seekers 105 feet in the air.
The visitor's family was at the park with him. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family," said Sheth.
The teenager's father told The State newspaper of Columbia, S.C., that his son was a happy-go-lucky young man who was always smiling.
"We still don't know what happened," said Asia Ferguson, the father of Asia Leeshawn Ferguson IV, as they returned to their church. "He was my oldest son. He was named after me. It's tragic."
The Cobb County Medical Examiners Office is expecting to conduct an autopsy Monday.
No guests on the ride were injured.
Batman The Ride is currently closed. The ride is expected to reopen Monday.
The ride has been operating at the theme park since 1997.
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