Six Flags to Add Seat Belts to Goliath Roller Coaster After Fatal Fall

Six Flags has announced plans to add seat belts to its Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia following the death of a 42-year-old man who was ejected from the ride earlier this month.

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, an Atlanta resident and educator, died on October 12, 2026. Preliminary information released by Cobb County police indicated that he was ejected from the coaster, struck other riders, and fell beneath the attraction. Several other park visitors, including four minors, were reportedly injured.

The Goliath coaster uses a lap-bar restraint system rather than an over-the-shoulder harness. In a statement, Six Flags CEO John Reilly said the company would introduce seat belts on Goliath and other coasters with similar restraints as part of additional safety measures.

The company has also hired independent engineers and ride-inspection specialists to review safety procedures across its attractions. Goliath remains closed while authorities investigate the circumstances of Kariem’s death, and officials have not announced when it will reopen.

Georgia’s Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner confirmed that Goliath’s most recent state inspection took place on March 16, 2026, with no violations or deficiencies reported. Investigators are now examining the ride, its operating procedures and relevant records to determine what happened and whether state safety requirements were followed.

Eight other similar roller coasters at Six Flags parks in the United States and Canada were also temporarily taken out of service as a precaution. The company has not yet provided a complete list of which rides will receive the new restraints or confirmed reopening dates.

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not publicly determined what caused the fatal incident.

Source: DAILYMAIL