Six Flags to permanently close X2 roller coaster amid safety concerns

Six Flags Magic Mountain said on Tuesday that it will permanently shut down its X2 roller coaster, citing safety considerations after a recent investigative report highlighted a series of injuries and fatalities associated with the attraction.

Park president Brian Oerding wrote in a blog post that, although the ride has consistently passed numerous safety tests, the decision to close it was made because "Ride safety is a cornerstone of our business, and when we see guest confidence affected, we take it seriously."

CNN's investigation, published last month, documented more than a dozen incidents involving serious injuries and hospitalizations, including at least two deaths. In July, two women were treated for brain injuries at a Santa Clarita hospital after riding X2 within a week of each other, prompting a temporary shutdown of the coaster.

Legal filings revealed that over 100 individuals have filed claims alleging brain injuries from the ride in the past two years. X2, known for its rotating seats and speeds near 80 miles per hour, has been a flagship attraction at the park for nearly two decades.

The park said the closure is final and will be reviewed as part of its ongoing safety protocols.