Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Aug 28
Six Flags Settles 2022 X2 Death Suit as 76mph Coaster Stays Shut After 2 Brain Injuries
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Aug 28

Six Flags Settles 2022 X2 Death Suit as 76mph Coaster Stays Shut After 2 Brain Injuries

3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Aug 28

Summary

  • Six Flags on Thursday settled a wrongful-death lawsuit over 22-year-old Christopher Hawley, who died in 2022 from a brain injury allegedly linked to the X2 rollercoaster; terms were not disclosed.
  • The settlement comes with X2 already closed since July 12 after two riders reported severe brain injuries within days of each other, according to a CNN investigation.
  • Pamela Guillen said she lost consciousness after her head struck the headrest and was diagnosed with a subdural hematoma, while Naomi Greer-Wilkinson was hospitalized with a traumatic brain injury and remains in a coma.
  • CNN said the 76mph ride has a two-decade history of reported injuries and two deaths, and questioned California's inspection process, which relied on testing data shaped by industry safety standards.

Insights

Why did it take multiple severe brain injuries and deaths for regulators to finally investigate this popular attraction?
Could the violent G-forces of your favorite thrill ride cause irreversible brain damage before you even realize it?