Rider Ejected and Killed on Six Flags Goliath Roller Coaster

Overview

• The fatal ejection that killed Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, occurred on Monday and prompted an immediate evacuation and closure of the Goliath ride at Six Flags Over Georgia.
• Six Flags temporarily closed nine to ten similar coasters across its parks as a precaution while park officials and state investigators examine the incident.
• Georgia’s Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner says it is conducting a comprehensive review and the coaster maker Bolliger & Mabillard also says it is actively investigating.
• Reporting by CNN and others has compiled years of inspection records, injury reports and lawsuits that allege mechanical failures, faulty restraints and deferred maintenance at multiple Six Flags parks after the company’s recent financial troubles.
• The case highlights the U.S. patchwork of state oversight for permanent park rides, with advocates and lawmakers pressing for stronger federal rules and closer, more consistent inspections of restraints, maintenance logs and operator procedures.