Travis Kelce's $200 million Six Flags investment takes a hit as deadly accident forces major safety changes

Six Flags is preparing to strengthen safety measures on some of its biggest roller coasters after a fatal accident at its Georgia theme park raised fresh concerns about ride safety. The decision comes as the amusement park operator works to improve guest confidence and business performance. Travis Kelce, the Kansas City Chiefs star who serves as a Six Flags ambassador and investor, adds another high-profile name to the company’s story. Although there is no indication that Kelce was involved in the safety decisions, the latest developments put the company’s operations and public image under renewed attention.Six Flags adds seat belts after fatal Goliath accidentSix Flags plans to install additional seat belts on the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia and similar rides at other parks. The move follows the death of 42-year-old Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, who fell from Goliath earlier this month. Investigators believe he was ejected from his seat, while four other passengers suffered injuries.The coaster already uses clamshell lap bars, which hold riders in place during the ride. However, the fatal incident has prompted the company to consider extra protection for passengers.Goliath stands about 200 feet tall and reaches speeds of up to 70 miles per hour. The ride has remained closed while authorities investigate what happened.Six Flags has also shut down eight other attractions across five parks as the investigation continues. The closures could affect visitors planning trips during the busy autumn season, while the company faces pressure to show that its rides meet strict safety standards.Chief Executive John Reilly said the company would bring in independent engineers and ride-inspection experts to review safety procedures across its attractions.“We are committed to carefully evaluating their findings and taking appropriate action to further strengthen our standards and culture of safety,” he said.The review could lead to broader changes in how Six Flags checks and maintains its rides.Travis Kelce’s Six Flags role draws attention amid safety reviewKelce’s connection to Six Flags gives the developments an added celebrity angle. The NFL star has a role as an ambassador and investor, linking his public profile to the amusement park business. However, there is no evidence connecting him personally to the Georgia accident or the company’s safety decisions.The incident also comes after Six Flags faced legal scrutiny over its X2 coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain in California. Multiple lawsuits alleged that the attraction caused serious brain injuries. The company permanently closed X2 last month.Beyond safety, Six Flags has been working to improve ride reliability, maintenance and guest satisfaction. Those efforts matter because breakdowns, closures and safety concerns can affect attendance and the wider visitor experience.For Kelce and other investors, the company’s response will be important to watch as Six Flags works to rebuild confidence. The immediate priority, however, remains clear: establish what caused the fatal accident, complete the safety reviews and make sure guests can trust the rides they choose.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.