LOS ANGELES: Six Flags Magic Mountain has permanently closed its signature X2 roller coaster after a series of incidents in which riders reported serious brain injuries.
X2, known for its extreme drops, high‑speed twists and 360‑degree seat spins, attracted more than 16 million guests since opening in 2008. The ride operated at speeds up to 80 mph (130 km/h) and built a devoted following among coaster enthusiasts.
The decision follows two high‑profile injuries in July 2024. Pamela Guillen, 40, of Valencia, suffered a subdural hematoma and brain compression after the ride and required emergency surgery that included removal of part of her skull. Less than a week later, Naomi Greer‑Wilkinson, 25, from Los Angeles, lost consciousness on X2 and underwent emergency brain surgery; she remains in a coma and is unable to speak or breathe unaided, according to her family.
The park closed X2 shortly after the second incident, and on Tuesday park President Brian Oerding announced the ride would be retired permanently. “After almost 20 years, we have decided to permanently retire X2,” Oerding said. “While X2 consistently passed a multitude of safety tests, we have decided to close the ride because we believe it’s the right thing to do. Ride safety is a cornerstone of our business, and when we see guest confidence affected, we take it seriously.”
Legal action surrounds the closure. Attorney Christopher Bulone, representing Greer‑Wilkinson through Dordick Law, said more than 100 people have contacted the firm claiming injury from the coaster. “The design of this ride makes it inherently dangerous, and makes it dangerous in a way that no reasonable rider would expect,” Bulone added.
Previous settlements include an August agreement between Six Flags and ride manufacturer S & S Worldwide Inc. and the family of 22‑year‑old Christopher Hawley, who died after riding X2 in 2022. Another lawsuit, filed by Sheila Katerelos, 56, alleges she suffered a traumatic brain injury on the ride in 2020 and is set for trial next year.
Six Flags, which operates parks across North America, declined to comment on pending litigation.
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