Young Boy Killed at Amusement Park

Norridge, ILA three-year-old boy was killed in an amusement park accident Saturday, April 3 when he fell from a roller coaster at ‘Go Bananas’ amusement park in Norridge, a Chicago suburb.

Jayson Dansby of south suburban Dolton, was on the "Python Pit" roller coaster with his identical twin brother when he apparently freed himself from the safety bar while the coaster was moving along the tracks. He then stood up but fell backward and landed in the join between the first car and the second car and then fell 3 or 4 feet from the ride. His family watched him fall; he was pronounced dead from head injuries around 7pm last night.

Although Norridge police are calling it a tragic accident and the Cook County Medical Examiner also ruled the death an accident, officials are conducting an investigation. Officials say that the boy did meet the height requirements for the ride, but they are trying to determine how he managed to free himself from the harness and safety bar.

The roller coaster ride was immediately closed and state officials pulled the park’s business license; the park will not be able to operate until all of the rides are completely inspected.

Go Bananas has been in operation for approximately six years and the ride is suitable for children aged between three and 12. According to its website, Go Bananas is an indoor amusement park for children's birthday parties and family outings. The owner of the company, Jerrold Marks, said that he was not aware of any injuries or similar accidents occurring in the park.

Jayson Dansby’s parents are making a plea with amusement parks across the country to continuously check and maintain ride equipment.