Six Flags Over Georgia to Reopen Friday After Fatal Coaster Incident
The park will reopen as scheduled, but the Goliath roller coaster where a fatal fall occurred remains closed as investigations continue.
Six Flags Over Georgia is set to reopen on Friday as planned, days after a man fatally fell from its Goliath roller coaster. The ride itself will remain temporarily closed as investigations into the incident are ongoing, a park spokesperson confirmed.
Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, of Atlanta, was found dead Monday afternoon after being ejected from the Goliath roller coaster, according to the Cobb County Police Department. The incident also resulted in injuries to several other patrons.
Preliminary findings from witness and employee interviews indicate that Kariem was ejected from the ride, struck other patrons, and then fell beneath the attraction. He sustained fatal injuries and was found on a building within the park, according to a police incident report.
Kariem was at the park with family members to celebrate his niece's birthday and was seated next to her when he was ejected. He was employed by Atlanta Public Schools, where he served as the IT manager, technology teacher, and robotics coach at Wesley International Academy for over 12 years. The school district described him as a "cherished member" of the academy.
The Cobb County Police Department has stated that investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The state's Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire, which oversees amusement park ride safety in Georgia, is also conducting an "in-depth and comprehensive review" to determine the cause and ensure compliance with all relevant policies and procedures.
In response to the incident, Six Flags has temporarily closed nine similar hypercoasters across six of its North American parks as a precautionary measure. The Goliath roller coaster, which reaches speeds of up to 70 mph and heights of 200 feet, first opened at the park in 2006.
A Six Flags spokesperson expressed deep sadness over the incident and extended condolences to the victim's family and loved ones. The park is also providing support to affected guests and staff. The park is currently operating on weekend hours.