Full Breakdown
Fatal Ejection on Six Flags’ Goliath Coaster Triggers State Investigation and Industry Scrutiny
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On October 12, 2026, Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old IT manager and technology teacher, was ejected from the Goliath hypercoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia. Witnesses said he fell from the lap-bar restraint, struck other riders and landed beneath the ride, where he was found unresponsive. Four minors were injured; their conditions were not disclosed because of their age.
Background & Context
Goliath, a 200-foot, 70-mph steel coaster that opened in 2006, uses a waist-level lap restraint without an over-the-shoulder harness. The ride is manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard, a Swiss firm with a long safety record. In the United States, amusement-ride safety is overseen by state agencies; Georgia’s Office of Insurance and Safety Fire (OCI) conducts annual inspections.
Data & Statistics
- Historical safety: Goliath is the second fatality in its 20-year history; the first occurred in 2006 and was attributed to a rider’s heart condition.
- Industry scope: Following the incident, Six Flags temporarily closed nine similar hypercoasters across six parks in the United States and Canada.
- Regulatory landscape: The Consumer Product Safety Commission’s authority over fixed-site rides was removed in 1981, leaving inspection to a patchwork of state agencies.
Official Statements & Responses
Cobb County Police officials, including Deputy Chief Damon Ballard, said criminal charges will be considered after the state’s findings are released. County Chairwoman Lisa Cupid emphasized the need for “a fact-based review” and asked the public to allow investigators space to work without speculation.
Bolliger & Mabillard confirmed it is investigating the accident and will refrain from further comment until it has a better understanding of what transpired.
Criticism & Opposition
Ride-safety expert Brian Avery, a professor at the University of Florida, noted that Goliath’s waist-level restraint lacks a secondary over-the-shoulder harness, which he believes “should be considered” to prevent a scenario where a primary restraint fails.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the immediate cause of Kariem’s ejection. Some eyewitnesses describe a “loose safety bar” and a “latch… snapped or came loose,” suggesting a restraint failure. The investigation has not yet released definitive findings on whether the malfunction was due to equipment wear, improper maintenance, or rider error.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Georgia's safety laws exist for a reason, and we expect them to be followed to the letter,” — John King, safety fire commissioner
- “Agencies are still active and need space to do the work without speculation,” — Lisa Cupid, Cobb County chairwoman
- “Goliath’s most recent OCI inspection occurred on March 16, 2026. No violations, deficiencies, citations, or red tags were reported during that inspection,” — John King
What’s Next
The OCI will continue its review of inspection records, permitting documents, and incident reports. Georgia law requires Goliath to remain out of service until the investigation concludes and the agency determines that all safety requirements have been met. The park is scheduled to reopen Friday for its Fright Fest event, but Goliath will stay closed pending the outcome of the state inquiry.