Six Flags to retrofit Goliath with new restraints after Georgia death

Six Flags will install seatbelts on its Goliath rollercoaster at its Georgia park. The change follows the death of Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old educator who was ejected from his seat earlier this month. Kariem fell from the ride, striking other cars during his descent.

The Goliath coaster features a 165-foot drop followed by a second plunge of 180 feet. It currently uses a lap bar restraint system manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard. This design locks across a rider's waist. The company announced the retrofit plan on Friday.

Chief Executive John Reilly stated that the incident deeply affected the company. He confirmed that similar seatbelts will be installed on other coasters using the same restraint system. Reilly did not specify which additional rides are included in this upgrade.

Georgia authorities have opened an investigation into the fatal fall. Six Flags temporarily shut down Goliath and eight other rides at five different parks following the accident. The park has also hired an independent firm to review safety procedures for all attractions.

Reilly wrote that the company would continue communicating its progress. He added that Six Flags would hold itself accountable to its commitments to guests.

The accident occurs while the company faces a lawsuit over its X2 ride at Magic Mountain. A group of former riders alleges they suffered brain injuries due to negligence. Court documents state the park operated a defective coaster. Six Flags permanently closed the X2 in September.