Investigation Underway After Fatal Roller Coaster Accident at Six Flags Over Georgia

An investigation is in progress after a tragic incident at Six Flags Over Georgia where a man died after falling from the Goliath roller coaster. Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, from Atlanta, reportedly was ejected from the ride, according to the Cobb County Police Department.

Witness Logan Conner described the scene, stating that Kariem appeared to be “levitating sideways” and making eye contact with those aboard. Kariem struck other riders before falling beneath the attraction, where he was found unresponsive.

Authorities have not yet disclosed details about other injuries related to the ride. In response, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation has temporarily closed nine roller coasters across six parks, a decision made “out of an abundance of caution,” according to a park spokesperson.

• Raging Bull at Six Flags Great America, Illinois
• Goliath at Six Flags Magic Mountain, California
• Nitro at Six Flags Great Adventure, New Jersey
• Fury 325 and Thunder Striker at Carowinds, North Carolina
• Orion and Diamondback at Kings Island, Ohio
• Leviathan and Behemoth at Canada’s Wonderland

Most of these rides were manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard, except for Magic Mountain’s Goliath, made by Giovanola. Bolliger & Mabillard are investigating but have yet to comment further.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident. Our thoughts are with the family and those affected,” stated the company.

Goliath, Nitro, and Diamondback are hypercoasters known for speed, airtime, and views, using an innovative lap bar restraint. Georgia’s Goliath reaches 70 mph over 4,480 feet, making it less intense compared to others in speed and elevation.

Georgia’s Goliath previously had an incident in 2006 where a man died from a suspected heart attack. Kariem’s death marks at least the seventh fatality at this park since 1989.

The Associated Press contributed to this report, emphasizing copyright restrictions.