CHARLOTTE — The investigation into a deadly roller coaster incident at Six Flags Over Georgia shut down rides at six amusement parks around the country, including two roller coasters at Carowinds.
Six Flags says Fury 325 and Thunder Striker are closed as a precaution after one man died and several others were hurt at the Georgia theme park Monday.
Witnesses say moments before the rider was flung from his seat on the Goliath rollercoaster, the ride’s restraints unlatched. Other rides say they tried to grab the man as he fell from the rollercoaster but were unable to save him.
“There was too much force to grab him that you just couldn’t,” one witness said.
Cobb County Police identified the victim as 42-year-old Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem.
[ READ MORE >> Man who died in Six Flags Over Georgia roller coaster incident identified ]
So far, it’s unclear what led to the tragedy.
Shortly after the incident, Six Flags released a statement, saying in part: “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.”
The Goliath is one of the largest rides at Six Flags Over Georgia. It stands 200 feet high and can hit speeds of 70 miles per hour.
Channel 9 learned the two rides shut down at Carowinds and the one involved in the Georgia incident were all manufactured by the same Swiss company, Bolliger & Mabillard.
Channel 9’s Tina Terry reached out to the company and Six Flags asking if the closures were recommended by the manufacturer and if that company will be involved in any inspections.
Just this year, state inspectors grounded Fury 325 after Carowinds discovered and self-reported an issue with the ride foundation. In 2023, it was also shut down due to a cracked support pillar.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE:
- Fury 325 at Carowinds shuts down after discovery of foundation issues
- State releases report on Carowinds ride’s cracked support beam
The Fury is advertised as North America’s longest steel coaster and one of the tallest in the world.
Channel 9 is asking if the rides could reopen when the park opens Thursday.
N.C. Department of Labor statement:
“The safety of the riding public in North Carolina remains our top priority. At the NC Department of Labor, we continuously monitor amusement ride incidents across the country to stay informed and proactive about public safety.
“At this time, we understand Carowinds has shut down Fury 325 and Thunder Striker for additional safety testing. We will be keeping in contact with both Carowinds and the Georgia authorities to ensure we have a full understanding of what happened in Georgia. North Carolina maintains some of the highest amusement ride safety standards in the nation, and we remain committed to upholding those standards.”
This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.