“HE SURVIVED CANCER TWICE — THEN TRAGEDY STRUCK” : FATHER DIES AFTER BEING EJECTED FROM SIX FLAGS ROLLER COASTER

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, was remembered as a devoted father and beloved educator after a fatal incident on the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia left his family and community grieving.

A family outing turned into an unimaginable tragedy on October 12, 2026, when Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem died after being ejected from a roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia in Austell, Georgia.

The 42-year-old Atlanta resident was riding the Goliath attraction when the incident occurred at approximately 3:58 p.m., according to Cobb County police. Investigators said preliminary information from witness and employee interviews indicated that Kariem was ejected from the ride, struck other guests, and fell beneath the attraction. He was found unresponsive and later pronounced dead.

Several other parkgoers were injured. Authorities said four young people were transported to local hospitals with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. The investigation remains ongoing.

A beloved educator and devoted father

Beyond the headlines, Kariem was remembered as a valued member of Atlanta’s school community.

He worked as an IT manager, technology teacher, and robotics coach at Wesley International Academy, where he had served for more than 12 years. Atlanta Public Schools described him as a cherished member of the educational community.

His death has left colleagues, students, friends, and loved ones mourning a man whose work helped young people learn and explore technology.

Witnesses raise questions about the ride

In the days following the incident, witnesses raised questions about what happened aboard the coaster. Some riders reportedly described unusual clicking sounds from the restraints before the ride began.

Those accounts have not established the cause of the incident. Investigators are examining the circumstances, including how Kariem came out of his seat and whether any safety issue contributed to the tragedy.

Six Flags said it was cooperating with authorities. The company also temporarily closed nine similar roller coasters across six parks as a precaution while the incident was investigated. The Goliath attraction remained closed as of October 14.

A community searching for answers

The Georgia state agency responsible for amusement-ride safety is also investigating. Officials have said inspections and interviews are underway, but no final determination about the cause has been announced.

For Kariem’s loved ones, the investigation is only one part of a devastating loss. They must now navigate life without a father and family member whose presence meant so much to them.

As the investigation continues, questions remain about the moments leading up to the incident and what, if anything, could have prevented it.

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem will be remembered not only for the tragedy that took his life, but also for his years of service to students and the people who knew and loved him.