Atlanta’s education community is mourning the loss of Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42‑year‑old teacher and information‑technology manager at Wesley International Academy. On Monday, Kariem was ejected from the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia and fell to his death.

Life of service and resilience

Kariem, a devoted educator and robotics coach, was described by colleagues as a “beloved colleague, friend, and integral part of the Wesley family” after more than a dozen years of service. He survived cancer twice, most recently in 2018, and earlier this year survived a fiery car crash that left his 10‑year‑old daughter unharmed.

In July, despite doctors warning him that a lung transplant might be needed, he ran the Peachtree Road Race, a 10K event, crediting his faith in a “higher power” for the achievement.

Details of the incident

According to the Cobb County Police Department, witnesses reported that Kariem was ejected from the coaster, struck other riders, and fell beneath the attraction. Witness Nick Mendenhall said he saw Kariem fall head‑first and described the moment as “slow‑motion, but it happened in an instant,” adding he prayed for the rider’s safety.

Six Flags Over Georgia President Richard Pretlow expressed deep sadness and offered heartfelt condolences to Kariem’s family, friends, and colleagues. He confirmed that Goliath remains closed with no announced reopening date.

Park response and broader safety review

Six Flags Entertainment Corp. has temporarily shut down roller coasters at six of its parks across the United States and Canada for safety inspections. The rides affected include another Goliath coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain, Raging Bull at Six Flags Great America, Nitro at Six Flags Great Adventure, Fury 325 and Thunder Striker at Carowinds, and Leviathan and Behemoth at Canada’s Wonderland.

Swiss manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard, which built the Goliath coaster, said it is actively investigating the incident and will refrain from comment until more information is available.

Community remembrance

Students, parents, and fellow teachers gathered to honor Kariem’s legacy, recalling his passion for technology education, his love of cooking as a pescatarian, and his unwavering faith. The school issued a statement highlighting his dedication to students and the lasting impact he left on the Wesley International Academy community.

Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.