Six Flags closes the ‘X2’ roller coaster in California following reports of a potential risk of brain damage

Six Flags Magic Mountain, located in California, announced on Tuesday the permanent closure of the X2 roller coaster. Considered one of the park’s main attractions for two decades, the ride’s safety was called into question after CNN published an investigation reporting that more than a dozen people suffered serious brain injuries after riding it.

With seats that rotate 360 degrees on their own axis, an initial drop of 66 meters at a nearly vertical angle, and speeds of up to 76 miles per hour (122 kilometers per hour), the X2 was considered a must-try experience for fans of extreme rides.

In July 2026, two women were treated in the emergency room after riding the roller coaster, due to very similar brain hemorrhages. According to doctors, their injuries were consistent with those typically seen in people who have been involved in high-speed collisions and other violent accidents. At least two deaths have been linked to the aftereffects of this ride.

In a statement, Six Flags Magic Mountain said that X2 has undergone various safety tests since its opening, but that the decision to close the ride reflects the park’s commitment to the well-being of its visitors. “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”, according to the park’s president, Brian Oerding.

The ride opened in 2002 amid some setbacks involving the construction company and was remodeled in 2008. According to CNN, there have been multiple complaints related to it since then. In response to these allegations, Six Flags’ legal team has argued that visitors assume the risk by choosing to ride, as a sign posted at the attraction warns them of possible injuries. The news outlet reported that more than 100 lawsuits related to the roller coaster have been filed over the past two years.

Some of those affected reported that, after getting off the ride, they began to experience dizziness, headaches, and difficulty speaking and moving normally. The documented accounts include both teenagers and adults who required specialized medical care. In some cases, the victims recall hitting their heads against the seat during the ride’s sudden turns.

Although serious injuries on these types of rides are uncommon, experts have pointed out that the evolution of roller coasters and the constant pursuit of more extreme experiences should be subject to stricter safety regulations.