A 38-year-old man suffered critical injuries at Kings Island Theme Park near Cincinnati on Wednesday evening after entering a restricted area close to the Banshee roller coaster. Park officials believe the man was struck by the ride, which is known as the world’s longest steel inverted roller coaster and can reach speeds of 68 mph.
The incident occurred around 8 p.m. when the man reportedly entered a fenced-off area near the Banshee. Emergency responders found him on the ground with severe injuries. He was initially taken to the University of Cincinnati West Chester Hospital before being airlifted to UC Medical Center for further treatment.
Local police are investigating the circumstances that led to the man’s presence in the restricted zone. However, according to Mason police, the man had dropped his keys while riding the Banshee and entered the prohibited area to retrieve them when the accident occurred.
The Banshee roller coaster has been temporarily shut down while authorities and park personnel conduct their investigation. Kings Island officials have stated that their primary focus is on the welfare of the guest and his family. The park has not provided additional details about the incident, citing the ongoing investigation.
