COBB COUNTY, Ga. — Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King says investigators are working around the clock to determine exactly what led to the deadly incident involving the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia.
The update comes days after 19-year-old Hassan Kariem was killed during an incident at the popular ride on Oct. 12.
“First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of Hassan Kariem, as well as everyone affected by this heartbreaking incident,” King said. “They deserve answers.”
The commissioner said Goliath’s most recent state inspection took place on March 16, 2026. No violations, deficiencies, citations, or red tags were reported during that inspection.
The ride will remain closed until the investigation is complete, King said.
According to the commissioner, investigators and engineers from the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire have maintained a full-time presence at Six Flags since the tragedy.
The team is examining the ride, its operation and maintenance records, and other evidence to determine what happened and whether all state safety requirements were followed.
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“Our team has been on the ground working day and night to ensure that every relevant detail receives the attention it deserves,” King said. “We will dedicate the time, expertise and resources necessary to have a complete understanding of what happened.”
The agency is conducting its investigation alongside the Cobb County Police Department, which is leading the law enforcement investigation into the incident.
State officials say Georgia law requires amusement rides involved in accidents resulting in a death or serious injury to remain out of service until a full investigation is completed.
Investigators are also reviewing inspection and permitting records.
The update comes as Channel 2’s Brittany Kleinpeter spoke with two former Six Flags ride operators who described the extensive training they received while working at the park.
Ashley Marion, who operated rides in 2004, said employees had to complete hands-on instruction and pass multiple tests before being allowed to run a ride on their own.
“You didn’t just get a training, and they threw you out there to operate,” Marion said.
Crystal Jordan, who worked at Six Flags from 2006 to 2008, said operators were trained on ride-specific safety procedures and seat checks. She also recalled being at the park during a fatal accident near the Batman ride in 2008.
“That was a very gloomy day. It was very sad,” Jordan said. “I can only imagine their emotions because we went through that 18 years ago.”
In a previous statement, Six Flags said safety remains its highest priority and that the park follows inspection, maintenance and safety procedures that meet or exceed industry standards.
King said investigators will release their findings once the investigation is complete.
“We owe it to the Kariem family, to everyone affected by this tragedy and to the people of our great state to find out exactly what happened,” King said. “Nothing is more important than the safety and security of the people we serve.”