Six Flags Over Georgia investigates fatal Goliath roller coaster accident

An investigation is underway at Six Flags Over Georgia following the death of 42-year-old Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, who was ejected from the Goliath roller coaster on October 12. Kariem, an IT manager and educator at Wesley International Academy, was riding the coaster with his family when the incident occurred. Witnesses reported seeing him dislodged during the ride, and his fall resulted in injuries to four other passengers.

In response to the accident, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation has shut down nine similar rides nationwide as a precaution. While the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner previously inspected the Goliath ride and found no deficiencies, the office is currently investigating the cause of the death. The ride remains closed pending the results of the inquiry.

The incident has renewed calls for federal regulation of theme park safety standards, as there are currently no nationally recognized safety regulations for the industry in the United States. While some industry data suggests many theme park accidents are guest-related or due to pre-existing medical conditions, the specific circumstances regarding whether the ejection was caused by mechanical failure or a medical event are still being determined.