Police say a man was hit by a roller coaster at an Ohio amusement park.
The incident happened on Wednesday around 8 p.m. during the ‘Banshee’ ride at King Island amusement park.
At 167 feet high and 4,000 feet long, the Banshee is the longest steel inverted roller coaster in the world. The top speed is 100 km/h, which according to the theme park’s website is only reached halfway through the ride.
First responders were called to the scene after receiving a report of a man being hit by a roller coaster while it was traveling at top speed. First responders said the man suffered a “traumatic injury” and was airlifted to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
The 38-year-old man, whose name has not yet been released, was found injured in the restricted area.
A man was fatally struck by a roller coaster at an Ohio amusement park, according to police
First responders were called to the scene after receiving a report of a man being hit by a roller coaster while it was traveling at top speed. Emergency officials said the man suffered a “traumatic injury” and was flown to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
He “entered a closed, gated area of the Banshee roller coaster and is believed to have been struck by the ride,” the theme park said in a statement to FOX19 NOW.
“The park’s safety and first aid staff immediately responded to the situation and contacted local emergency services,” the statement said.
“The ride remains closed while local authorities and park staff investigate.
‘Kings Island’s focus remains on the well-being of the guest and their family.’
A current update on the man’s condition has not yet been released.
At 167 feet high and 4,000 feet long, the Banshee is the longest steel inverted roller coaster in the world. The top speed is 100 km/h, which according to the theme park’s website is only reached halfway through the ride
The Banshee attraction remains closed while authorities and park staff investigate the incident.
Neither police nor park officials have determined the motive behind the man’s decision to enter the restricted area.
The Banshee first opened in 2014 and is one of the theme park’s main attractions.