Six Flags Magic Mountain has permanently retired its X2 rollercoaster, a ride that has welcomed more than 16 million guests since it opened in 2008, following a CNN report linking the attraction to deaths and injuries over the past two decades.
The ride, one of only three four-dimensional rollercoasters in the world, spins passengers 360 degrees independently of the track as the train plunges down steep drops at speeds of nearly 80mph. It has been accused of killing one man and leaving many others seriously injured, with links to two deaths and numerous injuries over the last 20 years.
Park president confirms closure
A statement issued to the 'Six Flags Community' by Brian Oerding, Six Flags Magic Mountain Park President, was shared on the official website and laid bare the fate of the popular ride.
It read: "After almost 20 years, we have decided to permanently retire X2."
"Since X2 opened in 2008, it has welcomed more than 16 million guests and earned a passionate following among ride enthusiasts. We recognize the special place X2 holds in the coaster community, and we are grateful to our team members who operated and maintained it throughout its run."
Safety concerns and fan reaction
The statement continued: "While X2 consistently passed a multitude of safety tests, we have decided to close the ride because we believe it’s the right thing to do. Ride safety is a cornerstone of our business, and when we see guest confidence affected, we take it seriously."
Fans have been left gutted by the decision, with many taking to social media to share their memories. One X user wrote: "Loved X2 ever since I was a kid, I used to get an annual pass all the time and whenever I would go to Magic Mountain with my friends we would always go on X2 at night it just hit different than going on it during the day."
Another wrote: "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. I at least got to ride it last year 5 times. Thank you @SFMagicMountain for one amazing ride of a life time." A third wrote: "By retire you mean you guys are gonna make x3 right?????"
The ride’s manufacturer, Arrow Dynamics, went bankrupt more than two decades ago. ReachPLC has contacted California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health, which oversees amusement park rides, for comment.
