Six Flags has announced the permanent closure of its X2 roller coaster at Magic Mountain in the Los Angeles area following numerous reports of brain injuries among riders. The ride has been closed since July 2024, after two separate incidents involving traumatic brain injuries occurred days apart, prompting multiple lawsuits against the amusement park operator.
Brian Oerding, president of Six Flags Magic Mountain Park, stated on the company’s corporate website that although X2 passed extensive safety testing, the decision to close the ride was made to protect guest confidence and prioritize safety. “Ride safety is a cornerstone of our business,” Oerding said, noting that the coaster had welcomed more than 16 million riders since its debut in 2008 and had gained a strong following among thrill-seekers.
X2, known for its 200-foot height, speeds reaching 76 mph, and 360-degree spinning seats that extend off the track, has been described by the park as a “rite of passage for the ultimate daredevil.” However, court documents and rider accounts depict a more troubling history. According to lawsuits filed by Southern California-based Dordick Law Corp., which represents multiple plaintiffs, hundreds of former riders have reported brain injuries linked to X2 over the past two decades, including severe, life-altering conditions and at least two fatalities.
One such lawsuit, filed on September 10, details the experience of Patrick Plumlee, who alleges his head violently struck the seat’s headrest during a September 2024 ride, resulting in a traumatic brain injury. Another suit filed on September 21 by Michael Wilk describes similar symptoms, including intracranial bleeding and swelling diagnosed after the ride. Wilk required two brain surgeries to alleviate pressure caused by the injury and continues to suffer from headaches, memory loss, confusion, and personality changes.
A particularly serious case involves Pamela Guillen, who was injured on July 5 while riding X2 with her daughter. The lawsuit alleges she suffered a massive brain hemorrhage and life-threatening injury, requiring multiple surgeries. The family contends that Six Flags was aware of prior injuries from the ride but failed to conduct proper investigations or warn the public. Among those previously injured was Christopher Hawley, who in 2022 collapsed after riding X2, later dying from intracranial hemorrhaging, according to reports. His family settled a lawsuit with Six Flags.
Another lawsuit filed on September 21 describes the condition of Naomi Greer-Wilkinson, who became profoundly disabled after riding X2 on July 11. The suit states she experienced violent, excessive forces during the ride and now remains bedridden on a ventilator, unable to speak or move independently.
Six Flags has affirmed its commitment to safety through a comprehensive inspection and training program involving third-party inspectors, insurance reviewers, and internal engineers. However, the company has declined detailed commentary due to ongoing litigation. Plaintiffs in the lawsuits are seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering related to their injuries.
The closure of X2 marks an important step for Six Flags in addressing safety concerns, but advocates say the company must also take responsibility for those already injured.