Six Flags Death Prompts Rollercoaster Safety Reviews in Georgia

A 42-year-old Atlanta man died after being ejected from the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia, prompting investigations and safety checks at parks operating similar rides made by Swiss manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard.

Police identified the victim as Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a father and educator, while authorities investigated the cause of the incident and injuries suffered by other riders, according to The Guardian.

Witnesses told local media that Kariem fell from a coaster car and struck parts of the ride several times. Video footage showed passengers being evacuated from the Goliath coaster, although officials had not released the cause of the accident.

SeaWorld Orlando temporarily closed Mako, one of its Bolliger & Mabillard coasters, while engineers and safety experts reviewed the restraint system and other ride components, according to WESH.

The park said Mako opened in 2016 and had operated for years without serious incidents involving its mechanisms. SeaWorld also operates other Bolliger & Mabillard coasters, including Manta, Pipeline, Penguin Trek and Kraken.

Michael Haggard, an attorney who has represented families affected by ride-related deaths and injuries, called for inspections of similar attractions after the Georgia incident.

"I would be very concerned," said Michael Haggard, attorney.

Haggard previously represented the family of 14-year-old Tyre Sampson, who died after falling from the Free Fall ride on International Drive in 2022. An investigation found the restraint system had been improperly altered.

"The question surrounds itself as 'Are these restraint systems proper? Are they dual restraint systems, meaning a lap bar and a seat belt? What is the situation?' And yes, every ride has the same risk of someone being ejected," said Michael Haggard, attorney.

Six Flags temporarily closed nine roller coasters across six amusement parks after the death, according to The Guardian. Six Flags Over Georgia remained closed because of its offseason schedule and was expected to reopen on Friday.

Atlanta Public Schools expressed condolences for Kariem, who began his career as a technology teacher at Wesley International Academy before becoming an IT Manager.

"Atlanta Public Schools extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Mr Kariem," said an Atlanta Public Schools spokesperson.

The school district described Kariem as an important member of its community and said his absence would be felt by students and staff.

"He was a cherished member of the Wesley International Academy and APS families whose presence and impact will be deeply missed by our students, staff, and all those whose lives he touched," said an Atlanta Public Schools spokesperson.

SeaWorld said it was cooperating with safety reviews after the incident.

"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 always our number one priority. We adhere to the highest safety standards. Our staff and technicians routinely inspect our rides and work closely with ride manufacturers and other engineering and safety experts to ensure we consistently meet and exceed the highest safety standards and guidelines," said a SeaWorld spokesperson.

Bolliger & Mabillard said it was investigating the accident and would not provide further comments until more details were available.

"We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident. Our thoughts are with the family and those affected. We are actively investigating the incident and will not comment further until we have a better understanding of what happened," said a Bolliger & Mabillard co-owner.

Busch Gardens confirmed its Bolliger & Mabillard rides remained open, while Universal Orlando Resort was contacted regarding its Hulk coaster at Islands of Adventure.