US Roller Coaster 'X2' Halts Operations After 24 Years Amid Brain Hemorrhage and Fatal Accidents

The iconic 'X2' roller coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California, has ceased operations after 24 years, following a string of severe injuries and fatalities. The ride, known for its unique 360-degree rotating seats, became the focus of intense scrutiny after recent incidents led to passengers requiring emergency brain surgery.

The latest incidents occurred in July. On July 5, Pamela Guillen, 40, from Hawaii, experienced repeated head impacts against the headrest while riding the coaster at speeds of up to 128 km/h. She was hospitalized with symptoms of vomiting and loss of consciousness, undergoing surgery to remove part of her skull to reduce brain swelling.

Just six days later, on July 11, Naomi Greer Wilkinson, 25, from Los Angeles, lost consciousness after riding the same attraction and also required emergency brain surgery. She remains in a coma, dependent on a ventilator. Following these events, the amusement park suspended the 'X2' operations on July 12, and it remains closed.

Victims' families reported receiving minimal support from Six Flags immediately after the accidents. The 'X2' has a documented history of issues. In 2022, Christopher Holly, 22, died from a traumatic brain injury the day after riding the coaster. His family filed a lawsuit, which was settled in 2023. In 2010, Hilda Farias, 28, also died after riding the 'X2,' with medical professionals attributing it to a combination of pre-existing brain conditions and the ride's intense forces. This case was also settled.

Internal records indicate that in the three years prior to Holly's death, at least 70 injury reports, including headaches and neck pain, were filed related to the 'X2.'