Six Flags permanently closes X2 rollercoaster following injury allegations

Six Flags Magic Mountain, an amusement park in California, has announced the permanent closure of the X2 rollercoaster after over 100 riders alleged they suffered brain injuries. The rollercoaster, known for its 360-degree spinning seats, has been closed since July. Six Flags stated that the ride had passed various safety tests but decided to retire it as it was 'the right thing to do.' This decision follows lawsuits and reports claiming that riders experienced brain injuries after using the ride. A law firm representing some plaintiffs indicated that the decision came 'too late' for their clients. External Six Flags Magic Mountain Park President Brian Oerding stated, 'Ride safety is a cornerstone of our business, and when we see guest confidence affected, we take it seriously.' Dordick Law Corporation, which filed civil lawsuits against the park, reported being contacted by approximately 400 individuals who alleged injuries related to the ride. The firm commented, 'They got on X2 expecting a thrill. Instead, they left with catastrophic brain injuries.' Some riders required emergency brain surgery and continue to struggle with recovery. While the law firm welcomed the closure to protect future guests, they noted it does not assist those already injured. The X2, originally named X, opened in 2002 but was closed shortly after for repairs due to design flaws. It was closed again in 2007 for train replacements and reopened in 2008 as X2, having since been ridden by over 16 million people. A law firm representing the family of 22-year-old Christopher Hawley, who died after riding X2 in 2022, stated that the closure is insufficient. Attorney Brent Wisner of Wisner Baum LLP remarked that while the family is 'relieved' by the closure, it does not change the fact that Hawley was killed by a dangerous ride that operated for nearly two decades. The family settled a wrongful death suit with the theme park in August. Wisner called for legal reform and better regulatory oversight, stating, 'We cannot rely on profit-centered corporations to do the right thing only after enough people have been hurt.'