Six Flags has temporarily closed nine roller coasters across North America following a deadly accident at its Georgia amusement park, where a 42-year-old man was ejected from a ride and fell to his death as other passengers watched in horror.
The victim, identified by Cobb County Police as Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem of Atlanta, died Monday, October 12, while riding Goliath at Six Flags Over Georgia. Police said preliminary interviews indicate Kariem was thrown from the roller coaster, struck other passengers and fell beneath the attraction. Several other people were injured.
Witnesses described terrifying moments as Kariem came out of his seat while the roller coaster was moving. Some reported seeing him strike portions of the ride before falling. Investigators have not determined whether a mechanical malfunction, restraint failure or another factor caused the accident.
The tragedy prompted Six Flags to temporarily close nine additional roller coasters at six parks in the United States and Canada as a precaution. The closures include rides in California, Illinois, New Jersey, North Carolina and Ontario. The company has not announced what inspections or other measures will be required before those attractions reopen.
Georgia’s Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner and Cobb County Police are investigating the accident, while roller coaster manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard is conducting its own review. Kariem worked at Wesley International Academy, where school officials remembered his dedication to students and the school community. Six Flags has expressed condolences to his family and said it is cooperating with investigators.
