A few weeks after surviving a car fire with his daughter, a father of two died falling from a Six Flags roller coaster in Georgia, USA.
Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old, was riding with his son when he was ejected from his seat on Monday, October 12. According to a family friend, Kariem had previously overcome cancer and a severe bout of COVID-19.
He was an education technology professional at Wesley International Academy and a member of the Roller Coaster Enthusiasts Club. The Goliath, Georgia’s tallest roller coaster, reaches heights of about 200 feet and speeds of up to 70mph. 
According to police and multiple eyewitness reports, Kariem struck other riders and the ride structure several times before falling beneath the attraction. He landed with a thud near a haunted house set up for Halloween.
One witness said Kariem appeared to “levitate” out of his seat, making eye contact with other passengers before the fall. His blood reportedly splattered onto nearby riders.
Officials confirmed he was riding with his son while his wife and daughter were watching from the ground.
First responders arrived around 4 p.m. local time and found Kariem unresponsive. He was later pronounced dead. Several other people were injured and taken to hospital.
Response from the Park and Officials
Six Flags issued a statement expressing deep sadness and offering condolences to Kariem’s family, friends, and loved ones. The company said it is fully cooperating with the investigation and supporting those affected. Out of caution, Six Flags temporarily closed Goliath and similar rides at other parks nationwide.
Cobb County officials and Atlanta Public Schools, where Kariem worked, also shared statements of sympathy. APS described him as a “cherished member” of the school community whose impact will be deeply missed.
Investigation Ongoing on the Roller Coaster Incident
A relative told reporters the family simply wants answers about what happened. Hence, the Georgia Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire is investigating the exact cause of the accident.
It remains unclear how Kariem came out of his restraint. The Goliath, manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard and opened in 2006, uses lap-bar restraints to keep riders from falling off.
SEE ALSO: Tupac’s Murder: Ex-Gang Boss Finally Sentenced To Life After 30 Years
About The Author
