Authorities have formally identified 42-year-old Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem as the individual who died following a fatal roller coaster accident at Six Flags Over Georgia. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon shortly before 4 p.m. on the park’s towering Goliath hypercoaster in Austell, Cobb County.
According to the Cobb County Police Department, preliminary information from witness and employee interviews indicates that Kariem was ejected from his seat while the ride was in motion. Investigators stated that he struck other patrons and portions of the ride structure before falling beneath the attraction. Several other individuals sustained injuries during the incident, though official updates on their conditions were not immediately released.
Victim Remembered as a Dedicated Educator
Kariem was a resident of Atlanta and worked extensively within the Atlanta Public Schools system. Colleagues and school officials identified him as a cherished member of the Wesley International Academy community, where he served for more than 12 years as an IT manager, technology teacher, and robotics coach.
"His love for Wesley, dedication to our students, and commitment to our school community were evident in everything he did," Wesley International Academy said in a formal statement. Relatives shared that Kariem was visiting the amusement park with family members to celebrate his niece’s birthday when the tragedy occurred.
Ongoing Investigations and Safety Responses
Law enforcement agencies, alongside the Georgia Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire, have launched active investigations to determine the exact cause of the accident. Garrison Bennett, press secretary for the state safety fire commissioner, confirmed that investigators are conducting a comprehensive review to verify full compliance with all applicable safety policies and procedures.
The ride’s manufacturer, Switzerland-based Bolliger & Mabillard, expressed deep condolences to the grieving family and noted that company representatives are actively looking into the circumstances of the accident. Out of an abundance of caution, park management temporarily closed similar hypercoaster attractions across several North American theme parks while safety checks are conducted.
Witness Accounts and Park Response
Eyewitnesses at the scene described a chaotic and distressing sequence of events. Park visitors reported that the ride ground to a halt near its peak, prompting emergency evacuations for remaining passengers. Representatives for Six Flags released a statement extending heartfelt condolences to the victim’s family, friends, and loved ones, emphasizing that park staff and local authorities responded immediately to manage the crisis.
The investigation remains active and ongoing as authorities continue reviewing ride data, security footage, and witness testimony.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the victim of the Six Flags Over Georgia incident?
The victim was identified as Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old Atlanta educator, IT manager, and robotics coach at Wesley International Academy.
Which roller coaster was involved in the accident?
The incident involved the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia, a hypercoaster that reaches heights of 200 feet and speeds up to 70 mph.
Are similar roller coasters still operating?
Following the incident, Six Flags temporarily closed similar hypercoaster attractions across several North American parks as a precautionary measure while investigations are underway.
Who is investigating the accident?
The Cobb County Police Department and the Georgia Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
