In brief
Six Flags Magic Mountain has permanently closed its X2 rollercoaster after hundreds of riders claimed they suffered brain injuries. The park cited the decision as “the right thing to do” amid looming lawsuits and media scrutiny. Lawyers for the victims said the closure comes too late to help those already harmed, and the family of a 22‑year‑old who died in a 2022 accident called the move insufficient. The X2, which spun riders 360 degrees, had opened in 2002 and been rebranded as X2 in 2004, drawing over 16 million riders before its closure.
Six Flags Magic Mountain in California has permanently shut its X2 rollercoaster after hundreds of riders alleged brain injuries.
The X2, known for 360‑degree seat spins and long wait times, has been closed since July despite the park saying it met all safety tests.
Twenty‑four lawyers filed civil suits and said the park’s decision to retire the ride is “too late” for those already injured.
The ride opened in 2002, was renamed X2 in 2004, and handled more than 16 million riders before the closure.
A sister case involved 22‑year‑old Christopher Hawley, who died after riding X2 in 2022; his family’s settlement did not stop calls for stronger oversight.
Six Flags spokesperson Brian Oerding said they prioritise safety but that the removal is still lacking for victims. The park hopes future rides will be safer.
