In brief
On Monday a 42‑year‑old man was ejected from the Goliath rollercoaster in Six Flags Over Georgia and fell to his death. Witnesses describe a chaotic scene as the cart suddenly stopped mid‑course and the rider hurled out, striking other passengers before plummeting beneath the track. The park and police are investigating the incident while the company has shut down nine rides nationwide as a precaution. The victim, Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, was a respected educator and father who had survived two bouts of cancer and a recent car crash. The incident adds to a history of Six Flags accidents, sparking broader questions about amusement‑park safety standards.
On Monday a 42‑year‑old man named Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem was ejected from the Goliath rollercoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia and fell to his death. Witnesses described the moment as terrifying, with the cart stopping mid‑track and the rider hurling out, striking other passengers before landing beneath the ride.
The park and police are investigating the event while Six Flags has shut down nine rides across the US and Canada as a precaution. The Goliath, opened in 2006, reaches 200 feet and speeds up to 70 mph, making it a popular thrill ride.
Kariem, a father and longtime educator at Wesley International Academy, had survived two bouts of cancer and a recent car crash involving his 10‑year‑old daughter. His family describes him as deeply loved and respected.
Six Flags officials confirmed the tragic loss and offered condolences to Kariem’s family. The company said the investigation is ongoing and that safety remains a top priority.
This incident adds to several past Six Flags accidents and has reignited discussions about amusement‑park safety protocols across the industry. For more details on the investigation and ongoing ride closures, see the official statements and local police reports.
