**Title: Six Flags Permanently Closes X2 Rollercoaster Amid Allegations of Brain Injuries**
**Los Angeles, California** – Six Flags Magic Mountain has announced the permanent closure of its X2 rollercoaster following numerous allegations from riders claiming to have suffered brain injuries. The decision to retire the ride, which has been a significant attraction at the park since its opening in 2002, comes after a series of lawsuits and reports detailing the injuries experienced by riders.
The X2, known for its unique design featuring seats that spin 360 degrees, has been closed since July. Despite passing various safety tests, park officials determined that the closure was necessary to restore guest confidence. Brian Oerding, the park president, emphasized the importance of ride safety, stating, "When we see guest confidence affected, we take it seriously."
The closure follows legal action initiated by Dordick Law Corporation, which has represented numerous clients alleging that they sustained serious injuries, including brain damage, after riding X2. The firm reported that many individuals contacted them, expressing their distress over the injuries they believed were caused by the rollercoaster. "They got on X2 expecting a thrill. Instead, they left with catastrophic brain injuries," the firm stated, highlighting the severity of the claims. Some riders reportedly required emergency brain surgery, while others continue to struggle with the aftermath of their injuries.
The X2 rollercoaster, originally named X, faced challenges shortly after its debut, including being closed for repairs due to design flaws. It was later reintroduced in 2008 with modifications, and since then, it has attracted over 16 million riders. However, the recent allegations and the tragic death of 22-year-old Christopher Hawley, who died after riding X2 in 2022, have raised serious concerns about the ride's safety.
Hawley's family settled a wrongful death lawsuit with Six Flags in August, and their attorney, Brent Wisner, expressed relief over the ride's closure but criticized the park for allowing the rollercoaster to operate for nearly two decades despite safety concerns. "That tragedy cannot be undone," Wisner stated, calling for legal reforms and better regulatory oversight in the amusement park industry. He emphasized the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety of future attractions, stating, "We cannot rely on profit-centered corporations to do the right thing only after enough people have been hurt."
The decision to close the X2 rollercoaster has been met with mixed reactions. While many welcome the move as a necessary step to protect future guests, others argue that it comes too late for those who have already suffered injuries. The Dordick Law Corporation acknowledged the closure as a positive development but reiterated that it does not address the needs of those who have been harmed.
As Six Flags Magic Mountain prepares to retire the X2, the park has not yet announced plans for a replacement attraction. The focus remains on ensuring the safety of its guests and restoring public confidence in its rides. The closure of X2 serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with amusement park attractions and the importance of rigorous safety standards in the industry.