Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem Identified in Fatal Six Flags Roller Coaster Fall

A longtime Atlanta educator remembered for his work in technology and robotics died after plunging from the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags over Georgia as investigators work to determine what caused the accident

The educator who died after falling from a roller coaster at Six Flags over Georgia has been identified as Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old employee of Atlanta Public Schools whose death has stunned colleagues, students and loved ones.

Kariem served at Wesley International Academy as the school’s information technology manager, technology teacher and robotics coach, according to a statement from Atlanta Public Schools cited by CNN. The district said his influence extended far beyond the classroom, describing him as a figure whose presence left a lasting impression on students and staff alike.

“Kariem’s presence and impact will be deeply missed by our students, staff, and all those whose lives he touched,” the district said. “Atlanta Public Schools extends its deepest condolences to Mr. Kariem’s family, friends and loved ones.”

A district spokesperson said Kariem had worked within the school system for more than 12 years.

His death came only weeks after surviving a series of life-threatening challenges, according to relatives. Family members said the 42-year-old had previously overcome cancer, endured a severe battle with COVID-19 and escaped from a vehicle fire just weeks before the fatal accident.

Meanwhile, investigators are attempting to reconstruct the events that unfolded inside the amusement park near Atlanta.

Preliminary information indicates that Kariem was riding Goliath, a roller coaster standing more than 60 meters (about 200 feet) tall, when he was ejected from the train during the attraction’s final turn. The exact circumstances that led to the fall remain under investigation.

Witnesses described a horrifying scene. Several park visitors reported seeing Kariem rise from his seat while the roller coaster continued along the track before plunging to the ground.

The ride’s manufacturer said it is “actively investigating the incident,” while Six Flags has temporarily closed at least 10 roller coasters across its parks in the United States and Canada as the investigation continues.

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(Photo: © AndKronos)