Florida Theme Park Faces Massive Security Overhaul After Violent 'Takeover'

You have to hand it to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay fans; they have been vigilant over the last week. After a violent “takeover” at the Tampa theme park last week, Busch Gardens fans took it upon themselves to warn the park and Tampa Police of any upcoming issues, which has worked.

Fight yesterday at @BuschGardens during the so called "takeover" pic.twitter.com/UvU93iy6Yv

— Jake Coasters (@jake_coasters) June 29, 2024

Last week, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay was overrun by a “takeover.” Guests were encouraged to “bring the drama” and to start fights in the park. And that’s precisely what happened as a massive brawl broke out in front of other guests.

After his incident, Busch Gardens fans took to social media to alert the park of another such “takeover.” The groups that initiated the original event scheduled other “takeovers” for July 4 and 6.

However, by posting their intentions on social media, fans could contact the Tampa Police and Busch Gardens security to ensure that there would not be another incident.

Busch Gardens and Tampa PD has reached out to several of us to ensure proactive steps have been taken to keep everyone safe this weekend. Remember if you see something, say something. Rule #5 https://t.co/lXMhPOhUV6

— Jake Coasters (@jake_coasters) July 3, 2024

Guests reported that the park had noticeable additions to its security inspection, and there was a visible police and security presence across the park over the holiday weekend. Guests have even reported that the Busch Gardens rides and shows were completely drama-free this weekend.

There was, however, one issue that Busch Gardens Tampa Bay needed to address to ensure guests’ safety. During the initial “takeover,” guests reported seeing someone with a gun.

During the social media conversation, guests pointed out that there was a fence along the road that people use to sneak in prohibited items, including possibly a weapon. Those messages were sent to Tampa Police and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay security.

Busch Gardens has replaced the fence that we were messaging them about the other day. The gap in the bars allowed for an easy pass through of items. https://t.co/avNeOeQQZ1

— Jake Coasters (@jake_coasters) July 6, 2024

Since receiving those messages, the security team has proactively addressed this issue, and now we have visual evidence of the change. The old fence has been removed and replaced by a solid brown wall, making it more difficult for people to sneak prohibited items into the park.

With the new security features, guests can focus on the park’s rides and attractions. Busch Gardens can also use this to promote its latest attraction.

Next week, Phoenix Rising, the park’s newest attraction, opens. The park’s website describes it as:

There’s nothing more exhilarating than a ride on the wings of the phoenix. Experience a fiery blaze of immersive, family-friendly excitement as you soar above the Serengeti Plain and drop into fun-filled twists and turns on the new Phoenix Rising.

Inspired by legend, this suspended roller coaster in vibrant Pantopia is packed with surprises and speeds up to 44 miles per hour. But with a height requirement of just 42”, it’s the perfect adventure for families to embark on together! Let your imagination and your adrenaline soar as you feel the rush of the wind and the thrill of the flight.

With the drama seemingly over, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and its guests can now focus on rides and shows without worrying about security at the park.

Do you feel safe now that Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has instituted these new safety measures?