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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Faces Safety Concerns and Incidents

Visitors enjoying the attractions at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

News Summary

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has recently been in the spotlight due to a series of disturbing incidents, including arrests for voyeurism, tragic accidents nearby, and animal welfare issues. As the park hosts its popular ‘Real Music’ concert series, concerns over safety and sanitation have risen among visitors. In response, Busch Gardens is emphasizing guest safety and animal care amidst these challenges, hoping to restore trust among patrons.

Tampa’s Busch Gardens Faces Series of Disturbing Events

In what has been a challenging start to the new year, the beloved theme park, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, is in the spotlight for a series of unsettling incidents that have raised concerns among visitors and locals alike. While the park continues to promote its attractions and events, the recent events have some people feeling uneasy.

Thrilling Attractions Amidst Trouble

Busch Gardens is known for its exhilarating rides and enchanting experiences for both coaster enthusiasts and families seeking fun-filled memories. With an exciting lineup of attractions, the park also proudly hosts the longest-running concert series, “Real Music,” from January 6 through February 22, 2025. This music event features talented tribute artists who will take you on a nostalgic trip back to the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Best of all, concerts are included with park admission, giving guests the sweet perk of enjoying live music at no extra cost!

To sweeten the deal, local radio show Q105 is hosting a fun contest giving away a four-pack of tickets plus parking pass to Busch Gardens. Interested participants can join in on “Useless Trivia” from January 6 to January 17, with winners having the option to choose between tickets to see a Tampa Bay Lightning game or those very coveted Busch Gardens tickets.

Serious Incidents Rock the Park

However, amidst the thrill and excitement, a serious incident occurred that left guests shocked. A man named George Graham, 42, was arrested on New Year’s Day after it was reported he allegedly recorded a minor in a bathroom at the park. The alarming situation came to light when a young person noticed Graham filming from an adjacent stall, prompting immediate action from park staff. An off-duty Tampa police officer stepped in to apprehend him.

Graham is currently facing charges of digital voyeurism. This isn’t his first run-in with the law, as he reportedly had a previous accusation related to inappropriate recording in a movie theater. Busch Gardens has made clear that they take incidents of this nature seriously, emphasizing that guest safety remains their top priority.

Tragic Deaths Near the Park

In another shocking incident, a woman tragically lost her life in a multi-vehicle collision near Busch Gardens. This serious accident involved several cars, including a Kia Sorento and a Dodge Ram, and took place just before 10 AM at the intersection of McKinley Drive and East Bougainvillea Avenue. Regrettably, the woman succumbed to her injuries at the scene, and others suffered injuries as well, prompting police to close down the intersection for investigation.

Concerns Over Animal Welfare

Adding to the distressing news, Busch Gardens recently reported the passing of Jim, a 37-year-old western lowland gorilla, making him the second gorilla to die at the park within a short span of three weeks. Jim had been undergoing treatment prior to his passing, which prompted a necropsy to determine the cause of death. This troubling trend, combined with recent reports of shigella infections in zoos across Florida, has raised eyebrows regarding the sanitation practices at Busch Gardens. Concerns have been voiced by local veterinarians who have questioned the connection between these infections and the unfortunate gorilla deaths.

Taking Action for Guest Safety

In light of these troubling occurrences, Busch Gardens remains committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all their guests. While they continue their thrilling events like the “Real Music” series, the park is taking these incidents seriously and implementing additional measures to uphold their standards of safety and animal care.

As the park strives to bounce back, guests are reminded to stay informed, remain vigilant, and check for updates before visiting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Let’s hope the magic of this beloved destination can rise above these recent challenges.