Travis Kelce (Imagn Images)
The October 12 death of Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, has prompted a wider examination of maintenance procedures, employee training and ride operations across the company. A March 16, 2026, state inspection recorded no violations or deficiencies, although a maintenance note mentioned bushings that needed replacement. Six Flags Over Georgia reopened on October 16 for Fright Fest, but Goliath has no announced reopening date.
the company has announced additional safety measures and an independent review of its attractions While the investigation continues. These accounts remain unverified, and investigators have not confirmed that a restraint malfunction caused Ibn Kariem’s death. No completion date has been announced. The company has also confirmed that supplemental seat belts will be added to three roller coasters: Goliath at Six Flags Over Georgia, Nitro at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey and Raging Bull at Six Flags Great America in Illinois.
A person familiar with the park’s operations said the affected bushings were in the coaster’s bogie assemblies and had been replaced, according to subsequent reporting by CBS News. Six Flags spokesperson Kristin Fitzgerald told the Daily Herald that the company would address issues requiring immediate attention as investigators identify them. Six Flags is facing renewed questions about ride safety following a fatal roller coaster incident at its Georgia park, with investigators still working to establish what went wrong. The developments also put the spotlight on Travis Kelce , who has been associated with Six Flags as an ambassador and investor. Ibn Kariem died after being ejected from the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia. Four other riders, all minors, suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities have not determined the cause of the incident, and the ride remains closed indefinitely. The investigation involves Georgia’s Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire and Cobb County police. Officials are examining the circumstances surrounding the fatality, including relevant ride records, maintenance procedures and the restraint system. Their connection to the fatal incident has not been established. The company has outlined a broader independent safety review covering inspection protocols, preventive maintenance, ride operating procedures, employee training, documentation and safety practices across its attractions. Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines Travis Kelce’s association with Six Flags as an ambassador and investor adds a celebrity connection to the company’s wider business story. However, there is no evidence in the available reporting linking the Kansas City Chiefs tight end to the incident or the decisions surrounding ride safety. For now, the focus remains on determining how Ibn Kariem was ejected and whether any mechanical or operational issues contributed to his death. Until authorities complete their work, the cause remains unknown. The findings could have wider implications for how Six Flags reviews its attractions and communicates safety standards to visitors. For the family of Ibn Kariem, the immediate priority remains answers about the fatal incident. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.
Earlier reports raised questions about Goliath’s inspection history. Eyewitness accounts have also raised concerns about unusual restraint noises and a possible restraint problem experienced by other guests before the accident.