Six Flags Magic Mountain announced Tuesday that it is permanently shuttering its world-renowned X2 roller coaster.
The decision follows a blistering month-long fallout from a CNN investigation that uncovered a shocking history of severe, life-altering brain injuries and deaths tied to the ride.
Safety claims vs mounting lawsuits
In a blog post addressed to theme park visitors, Six Flags Magic Mountain President Brian Oerding defended the ride’s maintenance standards while acknowledging the shutdown.
He noted that although X2 has “consistently passed a multitude of safety tests, we have decided to close the ride because we believe it’s the right thing to do.”
Despite the executive’s defense, public trust had already taken a massive hit. Lawsuits against the park have expanded dramatically with attorneys representing over 100 former passengers who allege they suffered traumatic brain injuries, brain bleeds and severe concussions after experiencing the attraction’s intense, 360-degree seat rotations at speeds approaching 80 mph.
The fall of a unique coaster
Known as a pioneer in “4th-dimensional” roller coaster engineering, X2 had drawn thrill-seekers from across the globe to Southern California for nearly two decades.
However, recent legal filings detailed horrifying medical emergencies including riders requiring emergency brain surgery or remaining in comas shortly after stepping off the platform.
The decision to decommission the ride permanently signals a major shift in how amusement park operators respond to safety concerns, prioritizing guest confidence over iconic attractions.
