Six Flags Closes Nine Roller Coasters After Fatal Accident

Six Flags has temporarily shut down nine roller coasters at six theme parks across the United States and Canada following a fatal accident that occurred on October 12 at Six Flags Over Georgia. The incident involved a 42-year-old man, Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, who was riding Goliath when he was ejected from the coaster, struck other patrons, and fell beneath the attraction.

This accident has raised concerns about ride safety and regulatory oversight. Kariem, an information technology manager and former technology teacher, was a guest at the park. The nine coasters closed as a precaution include Nitro at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, Raging Bull at Six Flags Great America in Illinois, Behemoth and Leviathan at Canada’s Wonderland in Ontario, Goliath at Six Flags Magic Mountain in California, Fury 325 and Thunder Striker at Carowinds in North Carolina, and Orion and Diamondback at Kings Island in Ohio.

Eight of these nine coasters were manufactured by Swiss company Bolliger & Mabillard, while Goliath at Magic Mountain was built by Giovanola, which is no longer in operation. B&M stated they are investigating the Georgia incident and would not comment further until they have a better understanding of the situation. Six Flags has not found a common technical problem linking the closed rides.

The closures extend beyond the nine announced, with La Ronde Montreal closing its Goliath for a safety review. The Georgia investigation aims to determine how Kariem was ejected and whether the restraint system, ride operation, or other factors contributed to his death. Witnesses have provided varying accounts of the incident, adding complexity to the investigation.

The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) reported a 0.88 injury rate per million roller-coaster rides in North America in 2023, which increased to 1.27 in 2024. This rise in injury rates does not necessarily indicate more fatal accidents. Amusement park safety is regulated at both the state and federal levels, with the Consumer Product Safety Commission having limited jurisdiction over fixed-site rides.

While the industry follows ASTM International standards for ride design and safety, enforcement varies by state, leading to ongoing debates about the need for increased federal oversight. As of October 14, Georgia's investigation is ongoing, and Six Flags Over Georgia plans to reopen on October 16, although Goliath will remain closed indefinitely.