Six Flags Magic Mountain in California is permanently retiring its X2 roller coaster as it faces lawsuits from guests who allege they suffered brain injuries after riding the attraction.
Park president Brian Oerding said in a statement that the coaster has been retired “because we believe it’s the right thing to do.”
"Since X2 opened in 2008, it has welcomed more than 16 million guests and earned a passionate following among ride enthusiasts," Oerding said.
"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."
Six Flags Magic Mountain is facing three lawsuits from riders who allege they suffered brain injuries after riding the X2.
More than 100 additional people have told attorneys that they intend to pursue claims alleging brain injuries after riding X2 during the past two years, according to lawyers representing the riders.
The claims follow a CNN investigation published last month, which identified more than a dozen reports of serious injuries and hospitalisations involving X2 riders over nearly two decades, including two deaths.
"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," Oerding said.
"Ride safety is a cornerstone of our business, and when we see guest confidence affected, we take it seriously."
He added: "Our purpose is to create fun, thrills and a lifetime of memories by creating unforgettable experiences that are underpinned by comprehensive safety policies."
Dordick Law Corporation has been retained to represent clients in connection with alleged injuries from X2, according to the firm.
It said it is "investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged injuries and the mechanism by which the X2 ride is alleged to cause traumatic brain injury".
"Medical and engineering experts have prepared supporting materials addressing the alleged mechanism of injury," the firm added.
