Six Flags Magic Mountain turned into a scene straight out of an action movie Monday morning after a bomb threat sparked a massive police response that included armored vehicles, road closures, and a full lockdown of the famous California theme park.
Terrified employees were evacuated while sheriff’s deputies swept the property after authorities received a threatening call involving the park in Valencia around 7:55 a.m., according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Aerial footage from local news helicopters showed deputies flooding the entrance to the park, with armored sheriff’s trucks and emergency crews stationed outside while investigators searched the grounds. California Highway Patrol officers were also brought in to block traffic and secure entrances around the massive amusement park.
“We are aware of the police activity at the park and are currently monitoring the situation in coordination with local authorities,” Six Flags said in a statement as the chaos unfolded.
The park had not yet opened to guests when the threat came in, but the lockdown stretched well past the scheduled 10:30 a.m. opening time while authorities combed through the property.
Officials later confirmed the park had been “cleared and safe” just before noon, and investigators said the threat did not appear credible. Authorities also said only one call had been made, though they have not revealed who made it.
No suspicious devices were found and no injuries were reported.
During the scare, authorities shut down the main entrance on Magic Mountain Parkway along with the employee entrance near Sky View Lane and Feedmill Road. Workers already inside the park were escorted out while deputies conducted the sweep.
The frightening scene drew major attention online as helicopter footage showed police vehicles lined up outside the “Thrill Capital of the World,” home to some of the most famous roller coasters in America.
Six Flags Magic Mountain is known for adrenaline-pumping rides including Twisted Colossus, X2, Goliath, and Tatsu, attracting thousands of thrill-seekers every day. The park’s parent company, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, welcomes more than 50 million visitors annually across North America.
For several tense hours Monday morning, though, the screams expected at the park had nothing to do with roller coasters.
Leave a Reply