A chaotic incident unfolded outside Six Flags over Georgia, resulting in a teenager being critically injured. The Atlanta area police were summoned to assist park security following reports of a disorderly crowd numbering between five to six hundred individuals. The situation escalated as the crowd was being escorted out of the park, leading to further unrest.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has initiated an inquiry into the shooting that occurred outside the amusement park. Law enforcement officers from the Cobb County Police Department were called to aid Six Flags security in managing the unruly crowd. The crowd had been engaging in fights within the park before being directed to leave, which only exacerbated the situation.
As the crowd exited the park, additional altercations broke out, culminating in gunfire directed at police officers. In response, an officer discharged their weapon, inadvertently striking a 15-year-old individual who is currently in critical condition at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta.
Video footage captured the intensity of the situation, underscoring the gravity of the events that transpired. Six Flags issued a statement expressing disappointment over the disruption caused by groups of underage individuals at public events in the region. The park clarified that the shooting did not occur on its premises or parking lot but on South Service Road, not under its ownership or operation.
The incident unfolded on the opening day of Six Flags' 57th season, with visitors still enjoying the park's attractions despite the unsettling events. The park's operations appeared unaffected, with guests continuing to partake in rides such as the popular Goliath roller coaster.
The occurrence of gunfire and subsequent injuries outside Six Flags over Georgia serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in maintaining public safety and security at large-scale entertainment venues.