Rollercoaster gets new safety locks after Georgia rider falls

A major theme park chain is upgrading its most iconic thrill ride with new seatbelts after a tragic accident claimed a life earlier this month.

The incident involved Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old educator and father of two. He was riding Goliath at Six Flags Over Georgia when he was unexpectedly ejected from his seat. The coaster is known for its intense drops, including a 165-foot descent followed by a 180-foot plunge. As Kariem fell, he collided with other cars on the track. Georgia authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

In the immediate aftermath, the company temporarily closed Goliath. They also shut down eight other rides across five different parks to ensure safety. John Reilly, the chief executive of Six Flags, addressed the public in a statement on Friday. He noted that the event has deeply affected the entire team. He emphasized that safety has always been a core part of the guest experience.

Reilly announced that seatbelts will be added to Goliath. He also confirmed that other coasters using a similar restraint system will receive the same upgrade. While he did not list every specific ride, the change addresses a potential design flaw. Currently, Goliath relies on a lap bar that locks around the rider's waist. This design was created by the manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard. The addition of seatbelts aims to provide an extra layer of security for riders.

The park has also hired an independent team to review its safety procedures. This review will cover all attractions at the location. Reilly stressed the importance of action over words in rebuilding public confidence. He promised to keep communicating about their progress and to hold the company accountable to its promises.

This incident occurs while the company faces other legal challenges. A lawsuit is currently underway regarding the X2 ride at Magic Mountain. A group of former riders claims they suffered brain injuries on that coaster. They accuse the park of negligence for keeping the defective ride in operation. A recent investigation by CNN highlighted a long history of brain injuries and at least two deaths linked to X2. The company permanently closed that specific coaster in September.

For now, the focus remains on the Georgia park. The installation of new seatbelts marks a significant shift in how these high-speed rides are secured. The independent review will provide further insights into operational safety. Families and thrill-seekers alike will be watching closely to see how these changes play out in the coming weeks.