Six Flags announces new safety measures for Goliath coaster following rider death

On October 12th, Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old IT manager, teacher, and robotics coach at an Atlanta school, tragically lost his life after being ejected from the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia and falling beneath the attraction. Kariem was visiting the park with his family to celebrate his niece's birthday when the incident occurred.

In response to this devastating event, Six Flags administrators announced on Saturday that they would implement new safety measures on the Goliath coaster, located in their Georgia park. These measures include the installation of seatbelts, which previously used lap-bar restraints. The company also stated that they have engaged independent engineers and ride inspection specialists to conduct a comprehensive review of their overall safety procedures across all rides and attractions in their parks.

Six Flags committed to thoroughly evaluating the findings of the investigation and taking appropriate action to strengthen their safety standards and culture. The park, which first opened Goliath in 2006, remains closed while they continue to inspect the ride and investigate Kariem's death.

Following the incident, Six Flags indefinitely closed nine similar coasters, including Nitro at Great Adventure in New Jersey, as a precautionary measure. As of Saturday, eight of these coasters remained closed, with the plan to install seatbelts or other restraints on them. The Goliath coaster, known for reaching an elevation of 200 feet and reaching speeds of up to 70 mph, is situated in Austell, west of Atlanta. The park is located in the state of Georgia.