Six Flags Over Georgia set to reopen after deadly roller coaster accident
Park plans to reopen
Six Flags Over Georgia is set to reopen four days after Kariem’s death, according to the park’s website. Kariem, a 42-year-old teacher, died after an incident on the Goliath ride.
Park president Pretlow said Goliath remains temporarily closed and that there is no anticipated date for its reopening. Pretlow said the park understands guests’ concerns and remains committed to providing safe experiences.
Witness describes the incident
A witness said Kariem fell onto a girl two rows ahead of her, striking the cart three times. She also said his son was seated beside him, while his wife and daughter were at the bottom and did not know what had happened.
The incident is under investigation. Goliath is described as a hypercoaster, a category generally spanning 200 to 299 feet in height; the park says the ride is 200 feet tall and reaches 70 mph.
Former student remembers Kariem
Kariem taught at Wesley International Academy in Atlanta. Former student Soledad Gomez told Atlanta News First that she remembered his smile and glasses, and described him as patient and someone who joked with students.
Key points
- Six Flags Over Georgia is expected to reopen four days after Kariem’s death.
- Goliath remains closed, and the park has not announced a reopening date.
- Kariem was a teacher at Wesley International Academy in Atlanta.
- The park lists Goliath at 200 feet tall, with a top speed of 70 mph.