Seatbelts Ordered for Goliath After Rider Falls 165 Feet

Theme park operators have long relied on lap bars for high-speed coasters, but a fatal accident in Georgia is forcing a hardware change. Six Flags announced Friday that it will install seatbelts on the Goliath rollercoaster at its Georgia park.

The decision follows the death of Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old educator and father who was ejected from his seat earlier this month. Kariem fell from a 165-foot drop, striking other cars on the ride before hitting the ground. A second drop on the track measures 180 feet. Georgia authorities have opened an investigation into the incident.

In response to the death, the company temporarily closed Goliath and eight other rides at five different parks. CEO John Reilly stated in a written message that the event has deeply affected the company. He noted that safety has always been a fundamental part of the guest experience.

Reilly specified that seatbelts will be added to other coasters using a similar restraint system, though he did not list the specific rides. Goliath currently uses a lap bar design manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard. The park has also hired an independent firm to review safety procedures across all its attractions.

Reilly acknowledged the need for accountability, stating that trust is earned through actions rather than words. He promised to continue communicating progress on the changes. The update comes as Six Flags faces a separate lawsuit regarding the X2 ride at Magic Mountain.

Former riders in that lawsuit claim the park operated a defective coaster and were negligent in keeping it open. Court documents cite a history of brain injuries and at least two deaths linked to X2. Six Flags permanently closed that coaster in September.