Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California, has permanently retired its iconic X2 roller coaster following a series of reported traumatic brain injuries linked to the ride. The decision, announced by park President Brian Oerding on September 29, 2026, comes roughly one month after a CNN investigation documented more than a dozen serious injuries and at least two deaths associated with the attraction over the years.
X2, known for its 360-degree rotating seats, steep drops, and speeds approaching 80 mph, has operated since 2008 and carried more than 16 million riders. In July 2026, two women—Pamela Guillen, 40, and Naomi Greer-Wilkinson, then 25—suffered severe brain hemorrhages within days of each other after riding and required emergency surgery. Attorneys later stated that more than 100 individuals have come forward alleging brain injuries of varying severity sustained on the coaster in the past two years alone.
Oerding noted that while X2 consistently passed safety tests, the park chose permanent closure “because we believe it’s the right thing to do,” emphasizing that guest confidence and ride safety remain core priorities. Multiple lawsuits have been filed, and California regulators continue to review the matter. This development underscores the importance of ongoing safety scrutiny at major theme parks and the value of transparent reporting in protecting public well-being.