Roller coaster reopens at Six Flags
Teenager died Saturday in restricted area after being hit by ride


The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 07/01/08

State officials gave the go-ahead for Batman The Ride to resume operations on Wednesday at Six Flags Over Georgia.

The ride was "operational" at 9 a.m. and open to the public at 10:30, when the park opened, according to a Six Flags statement.

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A South Carolina teenager died Saturday after he and his cousin jumped two fences in a restricted area to get to the roller coaster. Asia Leeshawn Ferguson, 17, was decapitated when he was hit by the ride.

State Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond said the amusement park met all safety standards, though he didn't specify what those were.

"We want to thank the department for its careful and considerate investigation," Six Flags spokeswoman Hela Sheth said in an e-mail. "We plan to review the suggested recommendations."

But after spending two days at the site, investigators from his office issued new requirements — not recommendations — for the park.

Within the next 10 days, the park must increase the number and size of warning signs at the park. The message on these signs should includes the words "extreme danger," he said.

"The signs that are out there now meet the standards," Thurmond said. "But it is our opinion these additional steps should be taken to enhance the safety of the surrounding area."

The park must also enhance its fencing within 120 days.

Whether that means higher fences or a different type of barrier will be left up to the park, Thurmond said.

Whatever the park does, it must provide "a more effective barrier from unauthorized individuals," Thurmond said.

During the investigation, Thurmond said he was in contact with Six Flags' CEO Mark Shapiro. He said labor officials will work with the park on the new requirements.

Also, while the work is being done, security personnel must be stationed in the area around the roller coaster to provide continuous surveillance of the ride while it is operating.

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