“HE SURVIVED CANCER — THEN A FAMILY DAY OUT ENDED IN TRAGEDY” — HASSAN JIHAD IBN KARIEM, 42, DIES IN SIX FLAGS ROLLER COASTER INCIDENT

The Atlanta father and beloved educator had overcome major health challenges and recently survived a car fire with his daughter. Now, his sudden death on a roller coaster has left his family, former students and community searching for answers.

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem had already faced some of life’s toughest challenges. But on October 12, 2026, the 42-year-old father’s life ended in a devastating incident at Six Flags Over Georgia.

Kariem died after being ejected from the Goliath roller coaster at the amusement park in Austell, Georgia, according to the Cobb County Police Department.

Preliminary findings indicate that he struck other park visitors before falling beneath the attraction. Responding officers found him unresponsive and not breathing.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The cause has not yet been established.

A FATHER WHO HAD ALREADY OVERCOME SO MUCH

In the days following Kariem’s death, his family shared details of the challenges he had faced throughout his life.

According to relatives, he had survived two bouts of cancer, with his most recent battle taking place in 2018. He had also reportedly survived a frightening car fire with his daughter just three weeks before the roller coaster tragedy. Both escaped that incident unharmed.

Those close to him are now struggling to comprehend how a day at an amusement park could end in such devastating circumstances.

Kariem was a father of two and a much-loved member of his community. His death has left his family grieving while investigators work to establish exactly what happened.

HIS SON WAS SITTING BESIDE HIM

Kariem was riding the Goliath roller coaster with his son when the incident occurred.

The attraction reaches a height of approximately 200 feet and can travel at speeds of up to 70 miles per hour. Witnesses described a frightening scene as the incident unfolded, with other riders and park visitors left shaken.

His wife and daughter were not aboard the ride at the time, according to reports.

Police have not confirmed what caused Kariem to be ejected. Investigators are examining witness accounts and other evidence, and officials have cautioned against drawing conclusions before the investigation is complete.

A BELOVED EDUCATOR WHO CHANGED LIVES

Beyond his role as a father, Kariem was known for his dedication to education.

He worked at Wesley International Academy in Atlanta, initially as a technology teacher before becoming an IT manager. Atlanta Public Schools described him as a cherished member of the school community whose influence would be deeply missed.

Former students have shared emotional memories of a teacher who made the classroom feel welcoming. They recalled his smile, patience and humour, as well as his enthusiasm for making learning enjoyable.

Two former students, Soledad Gomez and Juan Pablo Gomez, told Atlanta News First that his encouragement helped influence their own career paths. Juan Pablo is studying information technology, while Soledad is pursuing a future in education.

For them, Kariem was not simply someone who taught a class. He was a person whose example continued to shape their lives long after they left his classroom.

NINE ROLLER COASTERS TEMPORARILY CLOSED

Following the fatal incident, Six Flags temporarily closed nine similar roller coasters across several parks as a precaution.

The company expressed condolences to Kariem’s family and said it was cooperating with authorities.

The closures have drawn renewed attention to amusement park safety, although investigators have not established whether a restraint problem, a mechanical issue or another factor contributed to this particular incident.

The Cobb County Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit continues to investigate.

A FAMILY WAITS FOR ANSWERS

For Kariem’s loved ones, the loss is especially painful because he had survived serious challenges and was remembered as someone who cared deeply for his family and students.

His story is now being shared not only because of the circumstances of his death, but also because of the lives he touched as a father, colleague and educator.

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem’s death has left a family grieving and a school community mourning a man who helped shape the futures of his students. As the investigation continues, his loved ones are left with one devastating loss — and many unanswered questions.

Sources: PEOPLE, October 14, 2026; Associated Press, October 14, 2026; The Guardian, October 13, 2026; Atlanta News First, October 14, 2026.