On a warm Columbus Day afternoon, families from across north‑Georgia flocked to Six Flags Over Georgia in Austell, a beloved weekend destination for many parents and children. The day turned tragic when Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42‑year‑old IT manager and robotics coach at Wesley International Academy, was ejected from the park’s flagship Goliath roller coaster.
What happened
According to Cobb County Police, the incident occurred shortly before 4 p.m. while the 210‑second, 70‑mph ride was in operation. Witnesses reported that a safety bar appeared loose over an empty seat, and Kariem fell from the coaster, striking a haunted‑house attraction and other patrons before landing on the track.
“My stomach just dropped and I was terrified,” said CiCi Nelson, a rider who was in line when the cart pulled up. She described seeing a girl on the cart covered in blood and hearing a frantic call for help.
Response from authorities and the park
Emergency personnel arrived quickly, finding Kariem unresponsive and not breathing. Cobb County’s Major Crimes Unit opened an investigation to determine why the safety restraint failed. Six Flags released a statement expressing deep sorrow: “We are deeply saddened by the guest incident at our park today. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the guest’s family, friends, and loved ones.”
The park’s manufacturer, Bolliger & Mabillard, called the event “tragic” and said it is “actively investigating” the cause. In the meantime, Six Flags placed at least ten coasters at other locations across the United States and Canada on temporary standby “out of an abundance of caution.”
Impact on the community
Kariem had served the Atlanta Public Schools system for more than 12 years, teaching technology and coaching robotics. The district’s spokesperson said his “presence and impact will be deeply missed by our students, staff, and all those whose lives he touched.”
Local residents expressed shock and grief. Cobb County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Lisa Cupid said, “I cannot imagine the horror the patrons and employees witnessed today, and my heart aches for the family who lost a loved one.” Many families who visited the park that day recalled the day’s excitement turning into a nightmare.
Safety considerations
Amusement‑park safety is a matter of family concern, and the incident underscores the importance of rigorous inspection and maintenance of ride restraints. While Six Flags assures the public that it follows industry‑standard safety protocols, the investigation will determine whether additional measures are needed to protect patrons.
Parents are encouraged to remain vigilant, ask ride operators about safety checks, and report any perceived issues immediately. The park’s staff worked to evacuate riders from the stalled coaster and guided them down a stairway along the track, ensuring that no further injuries occurred.
Looking ahead
Six Flags Over Georgia has not announced a timeline for reopening Goliath. The park will likely remain closed until investigators complete their review and any necessary corrective actions are taken. In the meantime, the community mourns the loss of a dedicated educator and hopes for a thorough, transparent inquiry that restores confidence in the safety of local attractions.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
