The man who lost his life after falling from a 200-foot-tall roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia has been identified as Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem of Atlanta.
The 42-year-old IT specialist and father of two was found lifeless beneath the ride at Six Flags Over Georgia on Monday, according to the Cobb County Police Department.
“Preliminary information gathered through witness and employee interviews indicates Kariem was ejected from the ride and struck other patrons before falling beneath the attraction,” the Cobb County Police Department said in a statement on Tuesday. “Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
The state’s Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire, which is responsible for the safety of amusement park rides in Georgia, also said it is “actively investigating” the incident.
“Our investigative team is conducting an in‑depth and comprehensive review to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and to ensure full compliance with all applicable policies and procedures,” Garrison Bennett, the agency’s press secretary, said in a statement on Tuesday.
Several people were also injured in the incident, which occurred shortly before 4 p.m. Monday at the Atlanta-area amusement park, according to police.
A Six Flags spokesperson said that the “park team and local authorities responded immediately, and we are cooperating fully with local authorities as they complete their investigation.”
“We are deeply saddened by the guest incident at our park today,” the spokesperson said in a statement on Monday. “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.”
Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem was an employee at Wesley International Academy in the Atlanta Public Schools district
“Atlanta Public Schools extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Mr. Kariem. 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. Our thoughts are with everyone mourning his loss during this difficult time,” the district said in a statement.