Six Flags to install seatbelts on Goliath after Georgia rider death

Six Flags will replace the lap bars on its Goliath rollercoaster with full seatbelts.

The decision follows the death of Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old educator from Georgia. He was ejected from his seat during a ride earlier in October. The coaster features a 165-foot drop and a second plunge of 180 feet. Kariem struck other cars as he fell. Georgia authorities have opened an investigation into the incident.

The company temporarily closed Goliath and eight other rides across five parks following the fall. On Friday, CEO John Reilly addressed the event in a written statement. He described the incident as deeply affecting the entire company. Reilly stated that safety remains fundamental to the guest experience. He also announced that seatbelts will be installed on other coasters using a similar restraint system, though he did not name the specific attractions. Goliath currently uses a lap bar design produced by Bolliger & Mabillard.

The park has hired an independent firm to review safety procedures for all attractions. Reilly emphasized that trust is earned through actions. He promised to communicate progress and hold the company accountable to its commitments.

The Georgia incident occurs while Six Faces faces a lawsuit regarding its X2 ride at Magic Mountain. Court documents allege that former riders suffered brain injuries and that the park kept the defective coaster running. A CNN investigation recently reported a record of brain injuries and at least two deaths linked to X2. Six Flags permanently closed the X2 coaster in September.