Six Flags Roller Coaster Closed After Rider’s Death
According to the Associated Press (AP), Six Flags roller coaster, the Texas Giant, has been closed for investigation after a woman riding the attraction fell to her death. As police have ruled out any foul play, it now appears all investigations will be carried out internally.
Details on the Six Flags Roller Coaster Accident
- Dallas resident, Rosy Esparza, died after falling from the Six Flags Texas Giant roller coaster.
- The Arlingon Police Department’s media release stated the incident occurred Friday around 6:30 p.m. at Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington.
- Witnesses have stated that Esparza expressed concern about her safety bar not completely engaging while the ride was starting.
- A witness said Esparza was assured of her safety by a Six Flags employee while she was being secured into the ride.
- According to the family behind Esparza, she was on the ride with her daughter and a young man who was either her son or her son-in-law.
- The victim’s family has hired an attorney and is looking into pursuing legal action.
Investigations into Six Flags Roller Coaster Begin
“Texas is loosely regulated, some would say not regulated at all.” – Ken Martin, amusement ride safety inspector.
- Six Flags originally mentioned they were working with police, but as the police have found no evidence of foul play they are no longer involved in the investigation.
- The investigation will be conducted internally by insurance companies and officials sent by the ride’s manufacturer, Gerstlauer Amusement Rides located in Munsterhausen, Germany.
- Texas is one of 21 states without an agency to investigate amusement park accidents and deaths.
- Ride safety inspector Ken Martin pointed out that the lack of government oversight in the internal investigation will mean that factors contributing to the death may go unknown or unreleased to the public.
- Gerstlauer representative Tobias Lindnar has already stated he does not believe the safety bar was broken, and would not make further comment on how he suspects Esparza may have been ejected from the ride.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas has also closed the Iron Rattler in San Antonio until the investigation is complete.
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