Six Flags shuts down X2 coaster after two riders require emergency brain surgery

After a string of injuries spanning more than two decades, Six Flags finally halted operations of the X2 coaster at its Magic Mountain park in Valencia, California. The decision came after two severe incidents this summer: Pamela Guillen, 40, from Hawaii struck her head repeatedly on the ride’s headrest on July 5, leading to skull removal surgery and a two-week unconscious period. Six days later, Naomi Greer-Wilkinson, 25, from Los Angeles also lost consciousness and required emergency brain surgery, now remaining in a coma on a ventilator.

The park announced the ride has stayed closed since July 12, and a spokesperson said no comment was given regarding earlier deaths linked to the coaster. Families of the recent victims say they were offered limited assistance, such as fast-food meals, but have heard little else from the company. The coaster has a history of fatal incidents, including the death of a San Diego State University graduate named Hawley and a 2010 fatality of Hilda Farias, both of which resulted in settlements.