In brief
On Monday a man died after being ejected from the Goliath rollercoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia and falling beneath the track. The victim, 42‑year‑old Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, was found on the ground below the ride, having struck several people before his fall. Authorities are investigating the circumstances while Six Flags has shut down nine rides in North America as a precaution. Witnesses described a chaotic scene of shock and grief, and the park has issued a statement expressing condolences to the victim’s family.
Fatal Fall From Six Flags’ Goliath Rollercoaster
When a man was ejected from the Goliath rollercoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia on Monday, he fell to the ground and died. Police say he struck other riders before dropping beneath the track. The park has temporarily shut nine attractions across the United States and Canada during the investigation.
What We Know
Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, was found dead under the ride after being ejected. The incident occurred just before 16:00 local time on Monday. The Goliath coaster, which stands 200 feet tall, includes a 170‑foot drop and a 540‑degree spiral. Authorities have not yet released all details on how the ejection happened.
The park’s safety inspector’s office is reviewing the incident. The company has issued a statement expressing condolences to the victim’s family and the park’s staff.
Witness Accounts
Several witnesses reported seeing a man jump from a cart and collide with another before falling. One observer noted a broken restraint bar and a woman covered in blood when the ride returned to the station. Others described the scene as terrifying and chaotic, with screams and people rushing to help.
About the Victim
The victim was a teacher, IT manager and robotics coach at Wesley International Academy in Atlanta. He had survived two bouts of cancer, the last in 2018, and had recently survived a car crash involving his 10‑year‑old daughter. He was described as loved, hardworking and proud to serve his community.
Historical Context
Six Flags has seen seven fatal incidents at its parks in the last few decades. Previous deaths have involved riders falling from other coasters, medical emergencies and off‑track incidents. The operator has closed rides in response to safety concerns, most recently shutting its X2 coaster after dozens of injury claims.
