A tragic incident at Six Flags Over Georgia has raised concerns regarding ride safety after a father was killed in what is described as a harrowing accident on the Goliath roller coaster. The fatal event occurred on October 12, 2026, when 42-year-old Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem was reportedly ejected from the ride, leading to a fall that resulted in his death.
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According to officials from the Georgia Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Fire Safety (OCI), an investigation is underway to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the incident. The OCI is committed to conducting a thorough examination, ensuring that all pertinent information is reviewed with the aim of preventing such tragedies in the future. Commissioner John F. King emphasised the agency’s dedication to safety, stating, “We owe it to the Kariem family, to everyone affected by this tragedy, and to the people of our great state to find out exactly what happened.”
Seven months prior to the fatal accident, the Goliath roller coaster underwent its most recent inspection by state regulators on March 16, 2026. This inspection revealed no violations or deficiencies, and the ride was considered safe for operation at that time. Under state law, rides must be inspected before they are opened to the public and annually thereafter.
In response to the incident, Goliath has been closed indefinitely while investigations by both the OCI and the Cobb County Police Department are conducted. The police are looking into the circumstances of the ride’s operation at the time of the incident, while the OCI focuses on compliance with safety regulations.
Witness reports indicated that after Kariem was ejected from the ride, he struck other patrons before falling beneath the attraction. It was also reported that four children were injured during the incident and required transport to local hospitals, although their injuries were non-life-threatening. Due to the minors involved, further details regarding their identities and conditions have not been disclosed by local authorities.
Goliath, a hypercoaster designed by Swiss manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard, has been a notable attraction at Six Flags Over Georgia since it opened in 2006. Standing at 200 feet tall, it reaches speeds of up to 70 mph, and it is popular among thrill-seekers. Despite the park’s plans to reopen on October 16, 2026, Goliath will remain closed until further notice.
In an official statement, Richard Pretlow, the president of Six Flags Over Georgia, expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the affected families and individuals. Pretlow confirmed that the park’s team had responded swiftly and was cooperating fully with the ongoing investigations.
As the inquiry continues, there are significant questions surrounding ride safety and regulatory procedures within the amusement park industry in Georgia. The OCIs regular inspections and a strict adherence to regulations are intended to safeguard patrons, and this incident has highlighted the importance of rigorous compliance in ensuring the safety of amusement rides.
The events surrounding this tragic incident are still unfolding, and both local officials and the community await further updates. As families mourn the loss of Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, the focus remains on understanding the events that led to this unthinkable tragedy and ensuring that measures are implemented to avert future accidents.