SANDUSKY– James Young, 45, has died after entering a restricted, fenced area near the Raptor roller coaster, Cedar Point has confirmed.
Police confirmed that Young, of East Canton, was at the park with friends and some of his belongings fell while he was riding the Raptor.
He was struck after jumping the fence to retrieve his belongings.
“The city and police departments condolences go out to the family of this gentleman,” said Phil Frost, Assistant Sandusky Police Chief. “No one else was injured that we know of, from what we`ve discovered so far the actual train hit Mr. Young.”
Cedar Point released the following statement about the accident:
At approximately 5 p.m., a guest entered a restricted, fenced area of the Raptor roller coaster and was struck by the ride. Park safety officials responded immediately to the situation. Unfortunately the guest has passed away. Local authorities are on the scene conducting an investigation.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family at this time.
Police have spoken with a few witnesses, but are asking anyone else who saw anything to come forward. Anyone with information can contact Detective Dana Newell 419-627-5877.
At 5 pm, a guest entered a restricted, fenced area of Raptor and was struck by the ride. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
— Cedar Point (@cedarpoint) August 13, 2015
Below is a video from a rider’s view on the Raptor.