Six Flags addresses safety concerns after coaster incidents in Georgia and Magic Mountain

Six Flags is responding to concerns after a rider died at its park in Georgia and lawsuits were filed related to the X2 roller coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, KTLA reported. The company’s CEO, John Reilly, emphasized that safety is the company’s fundamental commitment during a recent earnings call.

The fatal incident occurred on the Goliath hypercoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia when Hassan Kariem, 42, flew out of his seat and fell to the ground, injuring several other park guests. This led to temporary closures of similar rides, including the Goliath at Magic Mountain, while safety protocols are reviewed.

Earlier, the X2 coaster at Magic Mountain was announced to be permanently closed following lawsuits claiming riders suffered traumatic brain injuries. The ride had initially closed in mid-July after a hospitalization and a Cal/OSHA safety investigation was launched.

Six Flags reported a dip in attendance in October due to inclement weather and the recent incidents. CEO John Reilly said the company expects the impact on its bottom line to be temporary and is cooperating with authorities to provide clear answers about safety measures.

Six Flags operates 20 amusement parks in the U.S. and Canada, including five in California such as Magic Mountain in Valencia.