Fatal Fall Triggers Mandatory Seatbelt Installation on Six Flags Goliath

A 165-foot drop ended in tragedy this month when a rider was ejected from a Six Flags coaster, prompting the theme park chain to install new seatbelts on the attraction. The incident at Goliath, located at Six Flags Over Georgia, resulted in the death of Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old father and educator. Witnesses reported that Kariem struck other cars on the ride as he fell from his seat.

Goliath features a 165-foot initial drop followed by a second plunge of 180 feet. The ride currently uses a lap bar restraint system designed by Bolliger & Mabillard, which locks across the rider's waist. Following the fatality, authorities in Georgia opened an investigation into the cause of the accident. Six Flags immediately shut down Goliath and suspended eight other rides across five different parks.

Company chief executive John Reilly announced the safety changes on Friday. He stated that seatbelts will be added to Goliath and other coasters that utilize the same restraint system, though he did not list the specific rides included in the plan. Reilly also confirmed that an independent review is currently examining safety procedures for all attractions within the chain.

“What happened has deeply affected all of us at Six Flags. Safety has always been fundamental to the experience we provide for our guests,” Reilly wrote in a public statement. He added that the company would continue to update the public on its progress and hold itself accountable to its safety commitments.

The death at the Georgia park coincides with ongoing legal battles for Six Flags. A group of former riders has filed a lawsuit alleging negligence regarding the X2 coaster at Magic Mountain. Court documents indicate the plaintiffs suffered brain injuries and claim the park operated a defective ride. A recent investigation revealed a history of brain injuries and at least two deaths associated with that attraction. Six Flags permanently closed the X2 coaster in September.