Six Flags to Add Seatbelts on Rides After Fatal Goliath Incident
Six Flags will add seatbelts to some roller coasters following the fatal ejection of a rider from the Goliath coaster in Georgia.
AUSTELL, Oct 25: Six Flags announced new safety measures, including seatbelts on select rides, following the death of 42-year-old Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem on the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia on October 12.
Kariem was ejected from the ride, falling and striking others before landing beneath the coaster. The park is currently closed for an investigation and safety inspections. Four other riders sustained injuries in the incident.
Six Flags CEO John Reilly said Goliath will remain closed for safety reviews, along with eight additional rides across five parks. He stated, “Our hearts remain with the family and loved ones of Hassan Kariem, those injured, and everyone impacted by the tragic incident.”
The park plans to hire independent engineers to review all ride safety procedures. Reilly emphasized the company’s commitment to high safety standards.
Opened in 2006, the Goliath coaster reaches 200 feet in height and speeds of up to 70 mph. It currently has lap-bar restraints, but the addition of seatbelts aims to enhance rider safety.
Six Flags operates 34 parks across North America, featuring more than 220 roller coasters. The company has reaffirmed its dedication to safety and will continue to provide updates on new measures.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
