Six Flags Magic Mountain and Ride Manufacturer Settle Wrongful Death Lawsuit Over Fatal X2 Roller Coaster Incident

Six Flags Magic Mountain and the ride manufacturer S&S Worldwide Inc. have reached a settlement with the family of Christopher Hawley, who died following a traumatic brain injury sustained on the park’s X2 roller coaster in 2022. The settlement resolves a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the Hawley family, who alleged that the ride abruptly and violently stopped, causing catastrophic injury to the 22-year-old rider.

Christopher Hawley, a recent graduate of San Diego State University, was riding the X2 coaster with his younger brother and cousin when the ride suddenly jolted to a halt near the end of the course. According to the lawsuit, the abrupt stop caused Hawley to suffer a severe right subdural hematoma, leading to his death the following day. The family sought accountability and safety assurances to prevent similar tragedies.

Key Takeaways

• Six Flags Magic Mountain and S&S Worldwide Inc. settled a wrongful death claim related to a fatal roller coaster injury on the X2 ride.
• The lawsuit alleged the coaster’s sudden, violent stop caused a catastrophic brain injury resulting in Christopher Hawley’s death.
• The settlement was reached before a scheduled jury trial, with financial terms undisclosed.

Background of the X2 Roller Coaster Incident

On June 23, 2022, Christopher Hawley visited Six Flags Magic Mountain with his younger brother Alex and their cousin. The group boarded the X2 roller coaster, known as the world’s first “fourth-dimensional” coaster, which features rotating seats and high-speed drops. Hawley was seated alone, with his brother and cousin seated directly behind him.

As the ride neared its conclusion, it abruptly and violently stopped, jarring all riders. Hawley was seen holding onto a rail for stability and walking unsteadily down the exit ramp. He complained of head pain and was taken to Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, where a CT scan revealed a severe right subdural hematoma. Despite medical intervention, Hawley died the next day.

Settlement Resolves Wrongful Death Lawsuit Ahead of Trial

The Hawley family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Six Flags Magic Mountain and S&S Worldwide Inc., the ride’s manufacturer, alleging negligence in the design, maintenance, or operation of the X2 coaster. The lawsuit claimed the sudden stop was unreasonably dangerous and caused the fatal injury.

The parties reached a confidential settlement before the scheduled jury trial in September 2026. Attorneys representing the family expressed satisfaction with the outcome but requested privacy as the case concludes. Six Flags Magic Mountain declined to comment on the settlement.

Liability and Safety Issues Surrounding the X2 Ride

This case highlights critical liability issues in amusement park injury claims, including ride design, maintenance, and operational safety. The X2 coaster’s abrupt halt raised questions about mechanical failure or inadequate safety protocols. The involvement of both the park operator and the ride manufacturer underscores the complexity of assigning responsibility in such incidents.

Following the incident, the X2 ride has remained closed, including after a separate July 2026 incident involving an unconscious rider. Park officials have not publicly detailed the causes or safety measures taken. Evidence preservation, including ride maintenance records and incident reports, would be central to litigation and settlement discussions.

Why This Settlement Matters for Personal Injury Litigation

Wrongful death claims involving amusement park rides can involve multiple defendants, complex liability theories, and significant damages related to catastrophic injuries. This case illustrates the importance of thorough investigation into ride operations, manufacturer responsibilities, and safety compliance.

For California injury claims, identifying all responsible parties and preserving evidence such as maintenance logs and incident data is essential. The case also underscores the potential for settlements to resolve disputes before trial, especially when families seek closure and assurances about public safety.

Cases involving serious injuries on commercial attractions like roller coasters require careful evaluation of corporate liability, product safety, and the interplay between operators and manufacturers. Such claims may also involve insurance coverage issues and the need for expert testimony on ride mechanics and safety standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused Christopher Hawley’s fatal injury on the X2 roller coaster?

The lawsuit alleges that the roller coaster abruptly and violently stopped near the end of the ride, causing a catastrophic brain injury known as a right subdural hematoma.

Who were the defendants in the wrongful death lawsuit?

The lawsuit named Six Flags Magic Mountain, the park operator, and S&S Worldwide Inc., the manufacturer of the X2 roller coaster.

Has the X2 roller coaster been reopened since the incident?

No, the X2 ride has remained closed since the incident and a subsequent July 2026 event involving a rider becoming unconscious.

What legal issues are common in amusement park injury cases?

Common issues include negligence in ride design or maintenance, operator liability, manufacturer responsibility, evidence preservation, and damages for catastrophic injuries or wrongful death.

Individuals and families facing serious injury or wrongful death claims related to amusement park accidents can benefit from consulting experienced Los Angeles County personal injury attorneys to evaluate liability, insurance coverage, and damages. For a free case review, contact trusted legal professionals who understand the complexities of such claims.

Original reporting by KTLA: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/six-flags-x2-lawsuit-settlement/