Tuesday, October 13, 2026·Focal News

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Wesley International Academy employee dies after fall from Six Flags coaster

Cobb County police identified the man who died after falling from the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia as 42-year-old Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem. Four other riders were injured and taken to a hospital; state officials are investigating.

Wesley International Academy employee dies after fall from Six Flags coaster
A 42-year-old Atlanta educator died Monday after falling from the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia in Cobb County, police said. The fall struck other people riding the coaster, and four were injured and taken to a hospital. Police identified the man as Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem. Officers found him unconscious and not breathing beneath the ride, and he was later pronounced dead. The incident happened shortly before 4 p.m., according to police. Atlanta Public Schools said Kariem was a “cherished” employee at Wesley International Academy. “Our thoughts are with everyone mourning his loss during this difficult time,” a district spokesperson said. The coaster was stopped after the incident, and riders were evacuated from a train. The Georgia Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire is investigating, while Cobb County police said their investigation remains active. Six Flags Over Georgia said park staff and local authorities responded immediately and that the company is cooperating with investigators. The park said it was supporting affected guests and employees and offered condolences to Kariem’s loved ones.

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