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Roller Coaster Decapitates South Carolina Teen

He wasn't on the ride but got hit while walking in a restricted area

By the Associated Press

Posted Jun 28, 2008 8:19 PM CDT

(AP) – A teenager was decapitated by a roller coaster after he hopped a pair of fences and entered a restricted area today at Six Flags Over Georgia, authorities said. Officials are uncertain why the 17-year-old from Columbia, SC, scaled two 6-foot fences and ignored signs that said the restricted area was dangerous. Witnesses reported he was retrieving a hat he had lost while on the ride earlier.

Police said the ride was going full-speed when the teen was struck. The ride's top speed is 50 mph, according to the Six Flags Web site. No one riding on the roller coaster was injured. The teen's friend also entered the restricted area but was not injured.

In this 1997 file photo, the Batman roller coaster is seen at Six Flags over Georgia in Atlanta.
In this 1997 file photo, the Batman roller coaster is seen at Six Flags over Georgia in Atlanta.   (AP Photo)
Cobb County Police Sgt. Dana Pierce delivers a statement at Six Flags over Georgia in Austell on Saturday, June 28, 2008.
Cobb County Police Sgt. Dana Pierce delivers a statement at Six Flags over Georgia in Austell on Saturday, June 28, 2008.   (AP Photo)
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