Concerns about safety on the Goliath roller coaster were reportedly raised months before a man was killed in a fall at Six Flags Over Georgia, according to a rider who says he witnessed repeated problems with the ride’s restraints.
Entrepreneur Nick Specter-Vlacic said he rode Goliath several months ago and experienced significant delays while waiting. He claims one of the trains was repeatedly removed for testing because its restraints were opening.
Mr Specter-Vlacic said he was not convinced the park had been caught completely unaware by Monday’s fatal accident. It remains unclear whether the issues he described were connected to the incident.
Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, was ejected from the roller coaster and struck other riders as he fell, according to the details released about the accident. Several other people were injured.
Six Flags subsequently temporarily closed nine similar roller coasters at its parks across North America while investigators examine what happened. The Georgia park is expected to reopen on Friday, although there is no indication of when Goliath will resume operating.
A Six Flags Over Georgia representative said: “The safety of our guests and associates is our highest priority. While we are unable to comment on specifics related to the incident or currently closed rides at this time, we are committed to rigorous ride inspection, maintenance and safety procedures that meet or exceed industry standards.”
