The Georgia Bureau of Investigations is currently investigating an officer-involved shooting that took place outside Six Flags Amusement Park. The incident occurred amidst a chaotic scene on Saturday, where Cobb County police were called to assist park police with crowd control. Reports indicate that over 500 individuals were engaged in running and fighting within the park, culminating in gunfire.
According to authorities, the situation unfolded as park security sought to manage an unruly crowd of 500 to 600 people. As efforts were made to clear the park, additional altercations erupted, escalating the chaos. Cobb County police found themselves under fire as they attempted to restore order, leading to an officer discharging their weapon and injuring a 15-year-old, who is currently in critical condition at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. A handgun was reportedly discovered near the minor.
A spokesperson from Six Flags addressed the incident, 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 their property or parking lot but on Self Service Road, not affiliated with Six Flags.
Witnesses at the scene shared varying perspectives on the shooting. One visitor at Six Flags remarked that such incidents do not deter their enjoyment of the park, acknowledging that crime can happen anywhere and emphasizing the unpredictable nature of such events.
This is not the first instance of violence at Six Flags, as similar incidents occurred last year, resulting in multiple ejections due to fights within the park. The ongoing investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Investigations aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding the officer-involved shooting and the events leading up to it.