Atlanta, Georgia — A Georgia educator who died after being ejected from a roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia had survived several serious challenges, including cancer, a severe battle with COVID-19 and a car fire, according to a friend of his family.
Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, of Atlanta, died on Monday, October 12, following an incident on the Goliath roller coaster at the amusement park. His death has left his family, friends and colleagues grieving as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Elicia Day, a friend of Kariem’s family, told that he had overcome several difficult experiences before his death. She also said Kariem and his daughter survived a car fire just weeks earlier.
The circumstances surrounding his death have raised questions among his loved ones, who are calling for a thorough investigation.
Family Friend Shares Details of Kariem’s Difficult Journey
Day described the loss as devastating, emphasizing the impact Kariem had on those who knew him.
“We’re absolutely devastated by this loss, any loss of a family member or friend is tragic but to lose him in this manner, this way it is beyond words can even express,” Day told the news station.
According to Day, Kariem had previously battled cancer and COVID-19. His survival of a recent car fire involving his daughter was another frightening experience for the family.
Despite those challenges, his life ended following the roller coaster incident at Six Flags Over Georgia. Day said the family wants authorities to establish exactly what happened.
“We want answers about how this happened,” she said.
What Happened on the Goliath Roller Coaster?
The Cobb County Police Department identified Kariem as the victim on Tuesday, October 13.
According to a preliminary police investigation, Kariem was ejected from the roller coaster, struck other riders and then fell beneath the attraction.
Officers responding to the incident at approximately 3:58 p.m. local time on Monday found him beneath the ride, unresponsive and not breathing, police said. Several other people were also injured during the incident, authorities reported.
The department’s Major Crimes Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding Kariem’s death. Officials have not established a final explanation for what caused him to be ejected from the ride.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further findings are expected to help clarify the sequence of events.
Georgia Educator Remembered by School Community
Kariem worked as an IT manager at Wesley International Academy, a representative for Atlanta Public Schools confirmed. His LinkedIn profile also listed previous work as an IT specialist and technology teacher at the school. Atlanta Public Schools issued a statement expressing condolences to Kariem’s family, friends and colleagues.
“Atlanta Public Schools extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Mr. Kariem,” the district said.
“He was a cherished member of the Wesley International Academy and APS families whose presence and impact will be deeply missed by our students, staff, and all those whose lives he touched,” the statement continued. “Our thoughts are with everyone mourning his loss during this difficult time.”
Kariem’s family members also spoke about his career as an educator. They described how much he loved his profession.
His death has left a school community mourning a colleague whose work involved supporting technology and education.
Son Was Beside Him During the Incident
Kariem’s son was seated beside him on the Goliath roller coaster when the incident occurred, according to the account provided in the report. His wife and daughter were not on the ride at the time.
The Goliath is one of the major attractions at Six Flags Over Georgia. According to the park’s website, the roller coaster reaches approximately 200 feet in height and speeds of up to 70 mph.
The circumstances of the incident have prompted calls from Kariem’s loved ones for a detailed investigation into what happened during the ride.
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Six Flags and County Officials Respond
A spokesperson for Six Flags Over Georgia expressed condolences and said the park was cooperating with the investigation.
“We are deeply saddened by the guest incident at our park today,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “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.”
Cobb County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Lisa Cupid also shared her condolences in a statement published on the county’s website.
“I cannot imagine the horror the patrons and employees witnessed today, and my heart aches for the family who lost a loved one,” Cupid said, per AP. “We are all grappling with how something so devastating could happen at a place that has given generations of families such happy memories.”
Investigation Into Fatal Roller Coaster Incident Continues
Kariem’s death has prompted grief across his family and professional community, while investigators continue examining the incident.
His loved ones are seeking answers about how the tragedy occurred. Police have confirmed that the investigation remains active, but the available information does not yet establish the cause of the incident.
As authorities continue their work, family members, colleagues and friends are remembering Kariem for his dedication to education and the relationships he built throughout his life.
What are your thoughts on this tragic incident at Six Flags Over Georgia? Share your condolences for the family and your thoughts in the comments below.
