Six Flags adds seatbelts to Georgia coaster after fatal ejection

Six Flags will install seatbelts on the Goliath rollercoaster at its Georgia park after a rider died from a fall earlier this month.

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old father and educator, was ejected from his seat during a ride on October 24, 2026. The coaster features a 165-foot initial drop and a second plunge of 180 feet. As Kariem fell, he struck other cars on the track.

John Reilly, the chief executive of Six Flags, announced the changes in a statement on Friday. He said the company would add seatbelts to Goliath and other coasters that use a similar restraint system. The Goliath currently uses a lap bar that locks across the waist, a design created by Bolliger & Mabillard. Reilly did not specify which other rides would receive the new restraints.

Georgia authorities have opened an investigation into the death. The incident caused the company to temporarily close Goliath and eight other rides at five different parks. Six Flags also hired an independent firm to review safety procedures for all of its attractions.

Reilly stated that safety is fundamental to the guest experience. He added that the company would continue communicating its progress and hold itself accountable to guests.

The accident occurs while the company faces a lawsuit over the X2 ride at Magic Mountain. Former riders claim the park operated a defective coaster and were negligent in keeping it open. Court documents allege the group suffered brain injuries. Six Flags permanently closed the X2 coaster in September.