Teacher Dies After Restraint Failure on Six Flags Goliath Roller Coaster
A local teacher fell to his death on the Goliath coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia, prompting an investigation by authorities and the ride manufacturer.
A 45-year-old teacher died after his safety latch reportedly failed on the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia. The incident occurred while he was seated next to his niece, who was celebrating her 13th birthday.
According to the girl's father, Joshua Nelson, the rider "passed out" before the restraints appeared to come loose. Nelson said his brother-in-law was excited about the ride, describing it as one of his favorites.
The coaster operator and state regulators, together with the manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard, have launched an investigation. Eleven roller coasters across the United States and Canada have been temporarily closed while the inquiry proceeds.
A separate rider reported that a seat restraint on the same coaster had repeatedly unlocked an hour before the fatal incident, raising further safety concerns.