The X2 roller coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain has been closed since July 12, as authorities, including the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA), conduct an investigation into a reported incident associated with the ride. The amusement park, located in Valencia, has not specified the reasons for the extended closure, leaving thrill-seekers and park visitors awaiting further information.
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A spokesperson for Six Flags stated, “The ride remains closed at this time,” yet details have been scarce regarding the circumstances surrounding the investigation. The closures come after a series of concerning events involving the X2 roller coaster this summer, prompting closer scrutiny from state officials.
Earlier in July, emergency services were dispatched to the amusement park on the evening of July 5 in response to an EMS call. According to the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the first responders arrived at around 9:11 PM to assess the situation. However, the fire department has not disclosed additional information regarding the incident or whether anyone was transported to a hospital following the call.
In June, a separate incident saw a fire breakout beneath the X2 roller coaster. Crews from the Los Angeles County Fire Department arrived at Six Flags Magic Mountain shortly after noon on June 11 to tackle a blaze that spread across about half an acre of brush and trees in the vicinity of the ride. Fortunately, no injuries or structural damage were reported, and the cause of the fire remains unknown. A Six Flags spokesperson confirmed at the time that “there were no injuries or structural damages.”
The X2 roller coaster has faced past legal challenges as well. The family of Christopher Hawley, a 22-year-old man who tragically died after riding the roller coaster in 2022, has filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against Six Flags and other parties. Hawley sustained a severe brain injury after exiting the ride and complained of head pain before losing consciousness. His family alleges that the ride’s design caused injuries and that Six Flags was aware of previous incidents associated with X2.
A coroner’s report concluded that Hawley’s death resulted from a brain injury stemming from “head trauma” suffered during what has been described as a “park ride accident.” Hawley’s father, William Hawley, has expressed concerns regarding the safety of the roller coaster, stating, “We want to make sure that that ride isn’t going to kill somebody else.”
With the ongoing investigation by Cal/OSHA, the future of the X2 roller coaster remains uncertain. As safety inspections take place, the community and park patrons are left to ponder the ride’s fate. Furthermore, the final status conference for the wrongful death case is scheduled for August 28, with a jury trial set to commence on September 8.
The amusement park has not yet indicated when the X2 ride might reopen to the public, leading to speculation about its operational future. Thrill enthusiasts are keenly watching the developments while park officials navigate the potential implications of the investigation and the pending legal proceedings.
As these events unfold, Six Flags Magic Mountain continues to assure visitors of their commitment to guest safety. In the meantime, visitors to the park will have to explore other attractions while awaiting updates on one of the park’s most popular rides. As investigations progress, the theme park community remains vigilant about the safety of amusement rides across the region.