A father who tragically died after being thrown from a rollercoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia has been identified, as heartbreaking details emerge about his life and the family he leaves behind.
The incident occurred on Monday, October 12, at the amusement park near Atlanta, Georgia, when a guest was ejected from the Goliath rollercoaster while it was operating.
Emergency services responded to the scene, but the man was pronounced dead following the incident.
Authorities have since confirmed his identity, while witnesses have described the terrifying moments that unfolded.
Who was the man killed on the Goliath rollercoaster?
Cobb County Police identified the victim as Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old father from Atlanta.
According to reports, Kariem had been visiting Six Flags Over Georgia with his family when the tragedy occurred.
His son was reportedly seated beside him on the rollercoaster, while his wife and daughter were elsewhere at the park.
The incident happened at approximately 3.58pm local time.
Police officers responding to the emergency discovered Kariem beneath the attraction, unresponsive and not breathing.
Despite the response of emergency personnel, he was subsequently pronounced dead.
What happened on the Six Flags rollercoaster?
According to preliminary information gathered by Cobb County Police, Kariem was ejected from the Goliath rollercoaster and struck other passengers before falling beneath the ride.
Witnesses described scenes of confusion and distress as the incident unfolded.
One visitor told local media that they saw a man suddenly leave his seat while the rollercoaster was moving.
Other eyewitnesses reported that passengers were visibly shaken when the train returned to the station.
Four additional people were reportedly injured during the incident, although the extent of their injuries has not been publicly confirmed.
The rollercoaster was brought to a stop, and other passengers were evacuated with assistance from park staff.
Investigators have not yet established what caused Kariem to be ejected from the ride.
Father remembered by Atlanta school community
Following the identification of the victim, Atlanta Public Schools confirmed that Kariem had been a valued member of the Wesley International Academy community.
The academy is a public charter school serving pupils from kindergarten through eighth grade.
In a statement, the school district paid tribute to Kariem and the positive influence he had on those around him.
Officials said his contribution to the school community would be deeply missed by pupils, colleagues and others whose lives he had touched.
The district also extended its condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.
Reports have described Kariem as a dedicated educator who cared deeply about his community.
His death has prompted an outpouring of sympathy as further details about the tragedy emerge.
Six Flags closes similar rollercoasters following tragedy
Following the fatal incident, Six Flags announced precautionary closures affecting nine similar rollercoasters across its parks in North America.
The company said the measures had been taken while the circumstances surrounding the tragedy were investigated.
Goliath is one of the major attractions at Six Flags Over Georgia, standing approximately 200 feet tall and reaching speeds of around 70mph.
The rollercoaster features steep drops and high-speed turns, making it one of the park's most prominent rides.
However, investigators have not confirmed whether the incident involved a mechanical problem, a restraint issue or another cause.
Six Flags issues statement as investigation continues
In a statement following the incident, Six Flags expressed its condolences to Kariem's family and confirmed that it was cooperating with investigators.
The company also said support was being provided to guests and employees affected by the tragedy.
Local authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.
Cobb County Police's Major Crimes Unit is examining evidence and witness accounts, while Georgia state safety officials are also investigating.
Officials have urged anyone with relevant information to contact investigators.
For Kariem's family and the wider school community, the investigation continues as they mourn the loss of a father whose life ended during what should have been a family day out.
