Six Flags CEO orders seatbelts for Goliath after rider dies in Georgia

A 42-year-old father died after being ejected from a rollercoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia, prompting the company to replace lap bars with seatbelts on the attraction and other similar rides.

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem was riding Goliath earlier this month when he fell from his seat. The coaster features a 165-foot initial drop followed by a second plunge of 180 feet. As he fell, Kariem struck the ride’s other cars. Georgia authorities have opened an investigation into the death.

Six Flags chief executive John Reilly confirmed the changes in a statement on Friday. He said the company will install seatbelts on other coasters that use the same restraint system, although he did not specify which rides are included. Goliath currently uses a lap bar manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard that locks across a rider’s waist.

Reilly wrote that safety has always been fundamental to the guest experience. He added that the company will continue to communicate progress and hold itself accountable to its commitments. "I know trust is earned through actions and not words," he said.

The park has also engaged an independent reviewer to examine safety procedures for all attractions. The fatal incident comes as Six Flags faces a lawsuit over its X2 ride at Magic Mountain. Court documents show former riders alleging brain injuries and negligence. The company permanently closed X2 in September.

The death led Six Flags to temporarily shut down Goliath and eight rides at five other parks.