Six Flags to retrofit Goliath with lap restraints after rider death

Six Flags will install seatbelts on the Goliath rollercoaster at its Georgia park after a rider died in October.

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, was thrown from his seat during a ride on Goliath, which features a 165-foot drop and a second plunge of 180 feet. He struck other cars as he fell. The incident prompted the company to close Goliath and eight other rides at five different parks. Georgia authorities have opened an investigation into the death.

Chief Executive John Reilly wrote on Friday that the event deeply affected the company. He stated that safety has always been fundamental to the guest experience. Reilly confirmed that other coasters using the same restraint system will also receive seatbelts, though he did not list specific rides. Goliath currently uses a lap bar designed by Bolliger & Mabillard that locks around the rider's waist.

The park hired an independent reviewer to examine safety procedures for all its attractions. Reilly said trust is earned through actions rather than words. He added that the company will continue to communicate progress and hold itself accountable to its commitments.

The accident occurs while Six Faces a lawsuit over alleged bodily harm involving its X2 ride at Magic Mountain. A CNN investigation found a long record of brain injuries and at least two deaths connected to that coaster. Court documents show former riders accusing the park of operating a defective coaster and negligence. Six Flags permanently closed X2 in September.