A fatal roller coaster accident at Six Flags Over Georgia is renewing attention to an Arlington tragedy that raised questions about ride restraints and safety oversight. Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, a 42-year-old Atlanta father and teacher, died after being ejected from Goliath on Monday. Police say their investigation remains ongoing. In Arlington, 52-year-old Dallas resident Rosa Esparza died riding the Texas Giant at Six Flags Over Texas on July 19, 2013, while visiting with family. An employee questioned whether her safety bar was tight enough, according to a later police report. But a green control panel indicator showed the restraint was secure. Esparza fell 75 feet and struck a support beam. The coaster reopened about two months later with new seat belts, redesigned lap bar pads and a test seat. Six Flags and the ride manufacturer denied liability. In late 2014, they settled with Esparza’s family before trial. The agreement included a payment but no determination of fault.
