Roller Coasters Across North America Closed Following Fatal Georgia Incident
Six Flags announces temporary closure of similar rides after a man's death on its Goliath coaster.
At least 11 roller coasters across the United States and Canada have been temporarily closed following a fatal incident on a Six Flags ride in Georgia. Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, died Monday after falling from the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia.
The Goliath ride at Six Flags Over Georgia has been closed indefinitely. A similar Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain in California has also been shut down.
"Out of an abundance of caution, we have temporarily closed similar attractions across our parks. The safety of our guests and team members is our highest priority," said Six Flags spokesperson Sara Gorgon.
Other Six Flags roller coasters that have been closed include the Raging Bull at Six Flags Great America in Michigan; the Nitro at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey; the Leviathan and the Behemoth at Canada's Wonderland in Ontario; the Fury 325 and the Thunder Striker at Carowinds in South Carolina; and the Orion and the Diamondback at King's Island in Ohio.
The Mako at SeaWorld Orlando has also been closed. All of these roller coasters, including the one involved in the fatal incident, were manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard Consulting Engineers, Inc. (B&M).
Busch Gardens confirmed that its B&M-manufactured roller coasters, including the Montu, SheiKra, and Kumba at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and the Griffon at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, will remain in operation. A spokesperson for Busch Gardens stated, "Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those involved in the tragic incident at Six Flags over Georgia. The safety of our guests and team members is a top priority."
However, the Griffon at Busch Gardens Williamsburg has experienced malfunctions in the past. In 2024, the ride stopped mid-run, leaving passengers stranded for over two hours.
Attorney Michael Haggard, whose firm specializes in accidental deaths, commented on the incident, stating, "Every ride has the same risk of someone being ejected." He added, "I would be very concerned, the question surrounds itself as 'Are these restraint systems proper?'"