MASON, Ohio – A man, 38, was hospitalized after an incident involving the Banshee roller coaster at Kings Island. The man sustained critical injuries, according to Mason police. Kings Island officials reported that the man had entered a restricted area around 8 p.m. and was believed to have been struck by the ride.
Witnesses at the scene recounted that the man had approached a Banshee ride greeter, claiming to have lost something and needing to retrieve it. Despite being informed that he would have to wait until the ride closed, the man persisted and eventually entered a restricted area. Reports indicated that the man’s attire resembled the uniforms worn by Kings Island employees, leading to confusion among some onlookers.
An individual seated in the front row of the Banshee ride described hearing a sound akin to colliding with a deer during the accident. Subsequently, the injured person was transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for treatment. In response, Kings Island expressed its primary concern for the guest’s well-being and that of his family.
As the investigation unfolds, the park announced the temporary closure of the Banshee ride to facilitate cooperation between park staff and local authorities. Updates on the situation will be provided as more information becomes available. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of observing safety regulations and park rules to prevent such accidents.
The unfortunate event at Kings Island underscores the need for vigilance and adherence to established safety protocols in amusement parks. This incident serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of respecting boundaries and regulations at theme parks to ensure the well-being of all visitors. The community’s thoughts and prayers go out to the injured individual and his family during this difficult time.