An Atlanta father and longtime school employee died after being ejected from Six Flags Over Georgia’s Goliath roller coaster.
Authorities identified the victim as Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42. The incident happened shortly before 4 p.m. on October 12, 2026, at the amusement park west of Atlanta.
According to an October 13 statement from Cobb County police, preliminary interviews with witnesses and employees indicate Kariem left the ride, struck other patrons and fell beneath the attraction. Investigators have not announced what caused his ejection.
Officers Found Kariem Beneath the Ride
Officers working at the park responded at approximately 3:58 p.m. and found Kariem unresponsive and not breathing. They secured the scene and requested assistance from the department’s Major Crimes Unit.
WSB-TV reported that four other people suffered injuries and went to a hospital. The ride stopped following the incident, and crews evacuated passengers.
Witnesses Describe Attempts to Help
Witnesses interviewed by ABC News described seeing a man come out of his seat and strike the coaster several times before falling.
“People reached out trying to grab him, like everybody tried to save this man,” one witness told the network.
One witness also alleged that his restraint came undone. Authorities have not confirmed that account or established whether a restraint malfunction contributed to the death.
School Community Mourns Longtime Employee
Kariem worked at Wesley International Academy for more than 12 years as an IT manager, technology teacher and robotics coach, according to the school’s statement reported by ABC News.
Atlanta Public Schools said his loss would affect students, staff and others who knew him. The academy remembered his dedication to students and its school community.
A relative told ABC News that Kariem had visited the park with family members to celebrate his niece’s birthday. The relative described him as a devoted family man.
Six Flags Temporarily Closes Similar Attractions
Six Flags said it temporarily closed similar attractions at other parks as a precaution following the death. The company expressed condolences to Kariem’s loved ones and said it was supporting affected guests and employees.
The company also said its staff responded immediately and were cooperating with local authorities.
Goliath opened in 2006. The coaster reaches approximately 200 feet in height and speeds of up to 70 mph, according to the park’s published specifications. Those figures do not establish how far Kariem fell.
Police and State Officials Investigate
Alongside the police inquiry, Georgia’s Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire is investigating the incident. The agency oversees amusement ride safety in the state.
The coaster’s manufacturer, Switzerland-based Bolliger & Mabillard, also said it was investigating and would withhold further comment until it better understood what happened.
Cobb County police described their investigation as active and ongoing. Anyone with information can contact the department’s Major Crimes Unit at 770-499-3945.