Experts outline key questions in Six Flags roller coaster death – FOX 5 Atlanta

Experts outline key questions in Six Flags roller coaster death  FOX 5 Atlanta

Investigators are trying to determine what caused a 42-year-old Atlanta man to be ejected from the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia, a question that could shape both future safety reviews and potential legal claims.Cobb County police said officers working at the park responded at about 3:58 p.m. Monday and found Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem beneath the ride, unresponsive and not breathing. Preliminary information from witness and employee interviews indicates Kariem was ejected, struck other patrons and then fell beneath the attraction. The investigation is ongoing, and police have not announced what caused him to be ejected.FOX 5 Atlanta spoke to a ride safety consultant and a lawyer about the tragedy.Amusement ride safety consultant Ken Martin said investigators will need to examine the coaster’s mechanical and electronic records, maintenance history and restraint system.

He said they also may review passenger limits and whether the ride was operating as intended.PREVIOUS STORIESMartin said ride computer and sensor data could help show what the coaster was doing before the incident. Maintenance logs and inspection reports could help investigators determine whether a mechanical problem or maintenance issue played a role.The restraint system also will be a key part of the review, Martin said. He noted that how a restraint fits can depend on several factors, including a rider’s height and body measurements.