Six Flags adds seatbelts to Goliath after 165-foot fatal drop

Six Flags will replace the lap bars on its Goliath rollercoaster with seatbelts. The change follows the death of a rider who fell 165 feet from the attraction in Georgia earlier this month.

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old educator and father, was ejected from his seat during a ride. The coaster features an initial 165-foot drop and a subsequent 180-foot plunge. Kariem struck other cars as he fell. Georgia authorities have opened an investigation into the incident.

The death prompted Six Flags to temporarily close Goliath and eight other rides across five parks. On Friday, Chief Executive John Reilly stated that safety is fundamental to the guest experience. He announced that seatbelts will also be installed on other coasters using the same restraint system, though he did not name specific rides. Goliath currently uses a lap bar design produced by Bolliger & Mabillard.

The company has also engaged an independent reviewer to examine safety procedures for all its attractions. Reilly noted that trust is earned through actions. He promised to communicate progress and hold the company accountable to its commitments.

This incident occurs while Six Flags faces a lawsuit over its X2 ride at Magic Mountain. A group of former riders alleges they suffered brain injuries and that the park operated a defective coaster. A recent CNN investigation found a long record of brain injuries and at least two deaths linked to X2. Court documents accuse the park of negligence for keeping the ride running. Six Flags permanently closed X2 in September.

The seatbelt installation is the latest safety measure following the fatal ejection. The independent review will cover all park attractions. The company continues to operate its other rides while the Goliath closure remains in effect.