Heavy police presence was reported at the Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois, as authorities responded to a shooting that left three injured. Some noted that the neighbourhood has seen some violence, so the incident might be a spillover from elsewhere. 

The incident has again brought out comments from both sides – one party urging stricter gun laws and the other opting to let more people carry weapons to deter attacks. However, it is undeniable that the news has left many shaken, especially since Six Flags is popular with kids. 

It is an amusement park calling itself the “Thrill Capital”. Six Flags Great America originally opened in 1976 as Marriott’s Great America and was run by the Marriott Corporation. Six Flags has owned and operated it since 1984. 

Also Read | Finley Stadium Chattanooga incident: What really happened

There are twelve themed areas, fifteen roller coasters, and a water park called Hurricane Harbor Chicago. With a heavy footfall, Six Flags Great America is ranked among the top 20 amusement parks in North America in terms of attendance. 

Visitors have the option to book a one-day ticket or an annual pass, which are priced differently. One individual on Twitter noted, “Multiple reports about a shooting at a Six Flags in Gurnee, IL. This is the same Six Flags I went to when I was younger”, adding, “We live in a country where you aren’t safe in amusement parks, schools, the grocery store, churches, malls, nightclubs, theatres, the list goes on.” 

Also Read | San Pedro Peck Park shooting: Is Los Angeles community safe place to live?

As per reports, the shooter left immediately in a vehicle, after the incident. Cops have now said there is no longer an active shooter situation and while two of the injured individuals have been taken to medical centres to receive treatment, a third individual refused. 

Six Flags Great America does not allow firearms or ammunition to be carried onto park premises, as part of their policy. The shooting reportedly took place in the parking lot of the amusement park and not inside the park itself.