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Six Flags permanently retires X2 after brain-bleed lawsuits

By Drooid · Sep 29, 2026, 10:32 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Brian Oerding Retires X2

Six Flags Magic Mountain President Brian Oerding permanently retired the X2 roller coaster.
The coaster was temporarily closed on July 12, 2026 after two riders suffered severe brain hemorrhages.
100 plaintiffs sued, alleging X2 caused injuries, citing 2022 death of Christopher Hawley and 2010 death of Hilda Farias.
California OSHA opened an investigation into the coaster after the July injuries.
Six Flags will replace X2 with the Thrill Glider coaster next year.

Summary

Doctors Warn Riders

Medical experts say X2’s rapid acceleration-deceleration likely caused the reported brain traumas.
Doctors warn people with aneurysms, recent concussions, or on blood thinners to avoid high-force rides.
Survivors still experience headaches, memory lapses, and dizziness months after the July incidents.
Settlements with the Hawley and Farias families were confidential and included no admission of liability.
Plaintiffs seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain-suffering.

History

Historical Context

In June 2015 a fully loaded train on Alton Towers’ The Smiler collided with a stalled test train, injuring riders and prompting the UK Health and Safety Executive to issue a prohibition notice. Merlin Entertainments pleaded guilty and was fined £5 million, leading the park and other UK operators to tighten safety procedures.

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Brian Oerding Retires X2

Six Flags Magic Mountain President Brian Oerding permanently retired the X2 roller coaster.
The coaster was temporarily closed on July 12, 2026 after two riders suffered severe brain hemorrhages.
100 plaintiffs sued, alleging X2 caused injuries, citing 2022 death of Christopher Hawley and 2010 death of Hilda Farias.
California OSHA opened an investigation into the coaster after the July injuries.
Six Flags will replace X2 with the Thrill Glider coaster next year.

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