Six Flags Magic Mountain Announces Permanent Closure of X2 Roller Coaster
On Tuesday, Six Flags Magic Mountain confirmed that its signature X2 roller coaster will be shut down permanently, ending a nearly two‑deccade run as one of Southern California’s most talked‑about thrill rides. The decision follows a CNN investigation that highlighted a pattern of serious injuries—including brain trauma and at least two fatalities—linked to the coaster over the past decade.
Overview of the Announcement
Six Flags Magic Mountain President Brian Oerding explained in a blog post that while X2 “has consistently passed a multitude of safety tests,” the park chose to close the ride because guest confidence had been shaken. Oerding emphasized that ride safety remains a core tenet of the company’s operations and that any erosion of public trust is taken seriously.
Background on the X2 Coaster
Debuting in 2006, X2 was marketed as a “fourth‑dimensional” coaster, featuring seats that rotate 360 degrees as the train hurtles through twists and turns at speeds approaching 80 mph. The ride quickly became a bucket‑list item for coaster enthusiasts worldwide, drawing visitors from across the United States and abroad to the Valencia, California park.
Findings from the CNN Investigation
The CNN report, released roughly a month before the closure announcement, documented more than a dozen cases of serious injury and hospitalization tied to X2, including at least two deaths. Notably, two women suffered brain injuries and were treated in the same Santa Clarita emergency room after riding X2 just six days apart in July 2024. Legal representatives told CNN that over 100 individuals have claimed brain injuries from the ride in the last two years alone.
Six Flags’ Official Response
In addition to Oerding’s blog post, Six Flags released a statement confirming that the coaster had been temporarily closed after the second woman’s injury in July and that a thorough safety review had been conducted. The company said it would continue to cooperate with any ongoing investigations and would honor existing tickets and reservations for affected guests.
Impact on Guests, Employees, and the Industry
The permanent removal of X2 leaves a notable gap in Six Flags Magic Mountain’s thrill‑ride lineup, potentially affecting attendance figures and the park’s marketing strategy. Industry analysts note that high‑profile closures often prompt other operators to re‑examine inspection protocols and guest communication practices, especially concerning rides with complex motion mechanisms like rotating seats.
Current Status and Outlook
As of September 28 2025, the X2 track remains standing but non‑operational, with Six Flags indicating that the structure will be dismantled in accordance with local regulations. No replacement attraction has been announced yet, though park officials have hinted at exploring new concepts that prioritize both innovation and proven safety records. The story continues to develop, and further updates will be issued as they become available.
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