Cobb County police have identified the man who died after the Goliath incident at Six Flags Over Georgia as Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old Atlanta educator.
Atlanta Public Schools confirmed that Kariem was a “cherished” employee at Wesley International Academy, WSB-TV reported.
Relatives told 11Alive reporter Chase Houle that Kariem was passionate about education and Atlanta. They also described him as someone who cared deeply about bringing families together.
Kariem survived cancer and a recent car fire
Family friend Elicia Day told WSB-TV reporter Michele Newell that Kariem had survived cancer and a difficult bout with COVID-19. Just weeks before his death, Day said, Kariem and his daughter survived a car fire.
Day said the family and friends around Kariem want investigators to explain what happened. “I just really want a full investigation and we want answers about how this happened,” she told WSB-TV.
The Goliath investigation remains active
Police said the incident happened shortly before 4 p.m. Monday. Preliminary information from witness and employee interviews indicates Kariem was ejected from Goliath, struck other riders and fell beneath the attraction. Authorities have not announced what caused the incident.
CrowdLevels’ initial report covers the emergency response, the evacuation of a second train and statements from Six Flags and investigators.