Six Flags Over Georgia set to reopen on Friday after deadly roller coaster accident

ATLANTA (ANF/Gray News) — Six Flags Over Georgia is set to reopen on Friday, just four days after a man was killed when he fell off a roller coaster.

Six Flags Over Georgia’s website shows the park will reopen Friday.

In a statement, the park’s management called safety its “highest priority.”

“While we are unable to comment on specifics related to the incident or currently closed rides at this time, we are committed to rigorous ride inspection, maintenance and safety procedures that meet or exceed industry standards,” officials added.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Six Flags Over Georgia roller coaster death: Everything we know

On Monday, 42-year-old Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem was ejected from the Goliath roller coaster, hitting other patrons on the ride, according to Cobb County police. His body was found underneath the attraction, and the park was evacuated.

The death is still under investigation, with no official cause given yet.

In the wake of the accident, Six Flags temporarily shut down nine rides across six parks that were similar to Goliath. The coaster — which goes up to 70 mph, has a maximum elevation of 200 feet and drops twice — uses clamshell lap restraints to secure passengers.

Kariem was a beloved teacher at Wesley International Academy, a K-8 charter school in Atlanta. Soledad Gomez, one of his former students, described him as a joyful man.

“I always just remember his smile and his glasses, and it’s just like, he never got mad at us. He was always patient with us. He would joke with us,” Gomez said.

In a statement, Six Flags said it’s cooperating with the police investigation.

“We are deeply saddened by the guest incident at our park today. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the guest’s family, friends, and loved ones. We are also providing support to the guests and team members affected,” a Six Flags spokesperson said. “The park team and local authorities responded immediately, and we are cooperating fully with local authorities as they complete their investigation. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, we will not be sharing additional details at this time.”

Since Kariem’s death, Six Flags has temporarily closed nine roller coasters across six parks “out of an abundance of caution.” Officials said the affected attractions are similar to Goliath, which only uses a lap bar to secure riders.

Though Six Flags Over Georgia will reopen Friday, Goliath will remain temporarily closed. In a statement, the park’s president said Goliath does not have an anticipated reopening date yet.