Six Flags commits to seatbelt upgrades on Goliath after Georgia rider death

Six Flags has announced plans to install seatbelts on the Goliath rollercoaster at its Georgia park, a significant safety modification following the death of a rider earlier this month. The company stated that this change is part of a broader effort to enhance security measures across its attractions after the tragic event involved a passenger being ejected from the vehicle.

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old father and educator, was thrown from his seat while riding the attraction. Goliath is known for its intense descent, featuring a 165-foot drop followed by a second plunge of 180 feet. During the fall, Kariem struck other cars on the ride. Georgia authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

In response to the incident, the company temporarily shut down Goliath along with eight other rides located at five different parks. John Reilly, the chief executive of Six Flags, addressed the public on Friday, acknowledging the emotional impact of the event. He stated that the situation has deeply affected the entire team and reiterated that safety remains a fundamental part of the guest experience.

Reilly confirmed that the seatbelt installation will not be limited to Goliath alone. The company plans to fit these new restraints on other coasters that utilize a similar restraint system. While specific names of the other rides were not disclosed, the move signals a shift in how the company approaches rider security. Currently, Goliath relies on a lap bar design produced by Bolliger & Mabillard, which locks across the rider's waist.

The park has also engaged an independent reviewer to examine safety procedures covering all of its attractions. This external audit aims to provide an objective assessment of current protocols and identify any potential gaps in the existing safety framework. The company views this step as essential for ensuring that all rides meet the highest standards of operation.

Addressing the public's concerns, Reilly emphasized that trust is built through actions rather than just words. He pledged to continue communicating progress on the safety upgrades and to hold the company accountable to its commitments. This direct approach to transparency is intended to reassure visitors that the park is taking concrete steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The fatal incident at Six Flags Over Georgia occurs at a time when the company is already navigating legal challenges related to rider safety. A lawsuit is currently underway regarding alleged bodily harm involving the X2 ride at Magic Mountain. Court documents filed by a group of former riders claim they suffered brain injuries on the coaster, accusing the park of operating a defective machine and failing to act with reasonable care.

A recent investigation by CNN highlighted a long record of brain injuries and at least two deaths connected to the X2 coaster. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit argue that the park should have acted differently regarding the operation of the ride. These legal proceedings add another layer of scrutiny to the company's safety management practices.

Six Flags permanently closed the X2 coaster in September, a decision that marked a significant shift in its operational lineup. The closure followed the accumulation of claims and medical reports that raised questions about the ride's design and maintenance. With the new seatbelt initiative for Goliath, the company is moving to address safety concerns proactively across its portfolio of attractions.

As the investigation into Kariem's death continues, the company remains focused on implementing the announced changes. The addition of seatbelts represents a tangible step toward modernizing the restraint systems on its high-speed coasters. Six Flags aims to balance the thrill of its rides with rigorous safety standards, ensuring that guests can enjoy the experience with greater confidence.