Los Angeles County, California — Six Flags Magic Mountain’s X2 roller coaster remains closed while California officials investigate a reported incident involving the ride. The closure also brings renewed attention to a pending lawsuit involving a fatal brain injury allegedly sustained by a young rider in 2022.
X2 Roller Coaster Remains Closed in Valencia During Investigation
Six Flags Magic Mountain’s X2 roller coaster in Valencia has remained closed since the evening of July 12 while California officials investigate a reported incident involving the ride. The park has not publicly explained the reason for the extended closure. Cal/OSHA’s Amusement Ride and Tramway Unit confirmed that its inspection is ongoing.
The closure follows an EMS response at the park on July 5, although officials have not released details about the patient or any connection to X2. On June 11, a fire beneath the coaster burned nearby brush but reportedly caused no injuries or structural damage.
X2 is also involved in a pending wrongful-death lawsuit concerning Christopher Hawley, 22, whose family alleges he suffered a fatal brain injury after riding the coaster in 2022.
What California Law May Require After an Amusement Ride Injury
The current investigation does not establish negligence or legal responsibility. However, California law imposes safety and reporting duties on permanent amusement-ride operators.
Under Labor Code § 7925, serious injuries or deaths related to a ride must be reported; relevant equipment or conditions may need to be preserved; and state inspectors may halt operations if a ride is found unsafe.
For families evaluating a possible brain injury claim, useful evidence may include:
- Medical records documenting neurological symptoms and diagnosis
- Witness statements, photographs, or video from the park
- Incident reports and emergency-response records
- Maintenance, inspection, and ride-operation records
California courts have also recognized that roller coasters and similar rides may carry a heightened common-carrier duty of care.
Get Help After a Serious or Fatal Brain Injury
A fatal or traumatic brain injury can result from amusement-ride incidents, car accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, and other preventable accidents. These injuries can create lasting medical, financial, and emotional challenges for survivors and their families.
Brain Injury Help Center can help evaluate potential legal options. A brain injury lawyer can review evidence, identify responsible parties, and explain whether a personal injury or wrongful death claim may apply.
Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your situation and possible next steps.
