A birthday celebration at Six Flags Over Georgia ended in tragedy Monday when Hassan Kariem, a teacher and father, was ejected from the Goliath roller coaster and fell to his death. His daughter was seated beside him on the ride. According to his brother-in-law, Joshua Nelson, Kariem’s final words before the coaster departed were, “This is my favorite ride, I’m so excited to be here.” His daughter later called her family in tears, saying she did not know where her father had gone.
The Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner reports the Goliath passed its most recent inspection in March with no warning signs. The family is now waiting on investigation results before holding a proper send-off for Kariem, remembered as a dedicated teacher and father who loved Atlanta, kids and technology. Six Flags Over Georgia reopened Friday, but the Goliath remains closed until further notice.
For families here on the Suncoast, the story raises familiar questions. We take our kids and grandkids to parks across Florida every season, and we trust that the restraints, inspections and operators will keep them safe. That trust is exactly why transparency matters after an accident like this. Have you ever changed your mind about letting a child ride a coaster? Tell us in the comments.
