The woman who tragically fell to her death on Friday night at Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington has been identified. Her name is Rosy Esparza.
According to KTVT in Dallas, Esparza was riding The Texas Giant (billed as the tallest still-hybrid roller coaster in the world) when she plummeted to her death while her son sat by her side.
Details remain unclear and authorities are investigating the incident, but a witness says Esparza had remarked on her lap bar not feeling especially secure.
Others on social media have said it either broke or came loose.
Said Six Flags spokesperson Sharon Parker in an email after the accident took place:
“We are deeply saddened to share that earlier this evening an adult woman died in the park while on the Texas Giant. Park medical staff and local paramedics responded immediately. Since the safety of our guests and employees is our number one priority, the ride has been closed pending further investigation. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends during this difficult time.”
The tragedy took place around 6:30 p.m. local time.
Carmen Brown had been next in line for the ride when Esparza fell and told an ABC affiliate that the victim’s restraint “released and she just tumbled.”
“It didn’t hit me until we got back down to the bottom,” Brown told WFAA-TV. She was no bigger than I was. That could have been me.”