Atlanta IT specialist and father of two identified as victim in fatal Six Flags roller coaster fall

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, an Atlanta resident, has been named as the individual who died after a fall from a 200-foot roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia. Police in Cobb County said the 42-year-old, an information technology professional and the father of two children, was discovered without signs of life beneath the ride on Monday. In a Tuesday statement, the Cobb County Police Department said, "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 department added, "Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident." Georgia's Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire, which oversees amusement ride safety in the state, said it, too, is "actively investigating" what happened. Press secretary Garrison Bennett said in a Tuesday statement, "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." Police said the accident took place shortly before 4 p.m. Monday at the park near Atlanta and that several other people were hurt. A Six Flags spokesperson said the "park team and local authorities responded immediately, and we are cooperating fully with local authorities as they complete their investigation." In a Monday statement, the spokesperson said, "We are deeply saddened by the guest incident at our park today." The statement continued, "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." Kariem worked at Wesley International Academy, which is part of Atlanta Public Schools. The district said in a statement, "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."