Six Flags Safety Overhaul: Seatbelts to Replace Lap Bars on Goliath

Following a fatal accident at Six Flags Over Georgia, the amusement park operator is replacing the lap bar restraints on its Goliath rollercoaster with seatbelts.

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old educator and father, died after being ejected from his seat on the attraction earlier this month. As he fell, he struck other cars on the track. The ride features a 165-foot drop followed by a second plunge of 180 feet.

Company chief executive John Reilly announced the design change on Friday. He stated that seatbelts will also be installed on other coasters that use the same restraint system, though he did not name specific rides. Goliath currently uses a lap bar manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard.

The park has temporarily closed Goliath and eight other rides at five different locations. An independent review of safety procedures for all attractions has also been initiated. Reilly wrote that the incident deeply affected staff and affirmed that safety is fundamental to the guest experience.

Georgia authorities have opened an investigation into the death. Reilly said the company would communicate progress and hold itself accountable to its commitments.

This incident occurs while Six Flags faces a lawsuit regarding its X2 ride at Magic Mountain. Court documents detail allegations of negligence and defective operation by a group of former riders who claim to have suffered brain injuries. A recent CNN investigation noted a history of brain injuries and at least two deaths linked to that coaster. Six Flags permanently closed the X2 ride in September.