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Six Flags Reopens California Goliath Coaster After 2-Day Inspection, Less Than One Week After Deadly Georgia Fall
Six Flags has reopened a roller coaster in California after temporarily shutting it down following a fatal accident on a ride with the same name at another park.
According to a report published by People on Monday, October 19, the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California, reopened on Thursday, October 15, after a two-day inspection.
“Goliath at Six Flags Magic Mountain was temporarily closed out of an abundance of caution and respect for those affected,” a park spokesperson said, per the outlet. “Following a review, the attraction has reopened.”
The closure followed the death of Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, who was ejected from the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia on October 12.
Although the two rides share a name, they are not identical.
“While the rides share the same name and are both classified as hyper coasters, they are separate attractions by different manufacturers,” the spokesperson explained.
The California coaster opened in 2000, stands 281 feet tall and, per the park’s official website, reaches speeds of 85 mph. The Georgia ride opened in 2006, stands 200 feet tall and reaches speeds of 70 mph, according to its website.
Following Kariem’s death, Six Flags temporarily closed nine additional roller coasters across six parks for safety reviews, including Nitro at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey, People reported. The company has not announced reopening dates for the remaining closed attractions.
“Our hearts remain with those affected by the tragic incident at Six Flags Over Georgia,” the spokesperson said, according to the outlet. “The safety of our guests and team members remains our highest priority.”
As Globe previously reported, Kariem, 42, was an Atlanta father of two and educator who had worked at Wesley International Academy.
Witnesses told 11Alive that Kariem struck several other riders as he fell, and WSB-TV reported that four people were injured.
The Goliath roller coaster in Georgia remains closed as the investigation continues.
