In brief
The X2 rollercoaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain in California was shut for good last July, following allegations of catastrophic brain injuries from over 100 riders and a wave of civil suits. Park officials said safety tests were passed but the decision was “the right thing to do.” A law firm representing injured parties called the closure “too late” and highlighted ongoing legal claims, including a wrongful death suit settled in 2023. Families of fatalities have urged tighter regulation and stronger government oversight of amusement attractions.
Six Flags Magic Mountain has permanently shut down its iconic X2 rollercoaster after more than 100 riders reported suffering brain injuries. The park announced the decision in a statement on Tuesday, citing a commitment to guest safety and the need to restore public confidence.
The X2, known for its high speeds, 360° seat spins and long queue times, had been open since July last year. Park President Brian Oerding explained that the ride had passed a series of safety tests but the potential risks to riders outweighed the benefits of keeping it operating.
In the months leading up to the closure, Six Flags posted a blog entry describing the safety protocol and the decision to retire the attraction. A law firm representing more than 400 alleged victims has described the shutdown as “too late” for the injured parties.
The firm, Dordick Law Corporation, claims that its clients endured catastrophic brain injuries, with some requiring emergency surgery and others still struggling to regain normal life after riding the X2. The firm’s statement asserted, “They got on X2 expecting a thrill. Instead, they left with catastrophic brain injuries.”
The closure follows the death of 22‑year‑old Christopher Hawley after a 2022 incident on the X2. Hawley's family settled a wrongful‑death suit with Six Flags in August 2023, but attorneys argue that the park’s “dangerous roller coaster that was allowed to operate for nearly two decades” was the root cause of the tragedy.
Legal experts, including Brent Wisner of Wisner Baum LLP, have called for legal reform, proactive regulation, and government oversight to stop similar incidents. Wisner said, “We cannot rely on profit‑centered corporations to do the right thing only after enough people have been hurt. We hope whatever replaces the X2 is safe.”
The X2, opened in 2002 as X and redesigned in 2005, has reportedly been ridden by over 16 million visitors since renovation. The park will transition its lineup of attractions to new rides, but safety will remain the top priority for the theme park’s future.
