News Summary
The family of Christopher Hawley, a 22-year-old man, has filed a lawsuit against Six Flags Magic Mountain after a fatal incident on the X2 roller coaster. The ride, noted for its extreme roughness and high speeds, left Hawley with a fatal brain injury after he collapsed post-ride. The family is seeking justice and accountability from the amusement park, claiming negligence and a history of safety concerns associated with the ride. The trial is set for October 2025.
Tragic Lawsuit Filed Following Roller Coaster Incident at Six Flags Magic Mountain
Valencia, California – The heart-wrenching story of a family’s loss is making headlines, as the family of a 22-year-old man is suing Six Flags Magic Mountain after a devastating accident on one of its most notorious rides. The roller coaster in question, known as the X2, is a fan favorite for thrill-seekers but has been described by many as an extremely rough ride, capable of reaching speeds up to 76 miles per hour. Unfortunately, for Christopher Hawley, this ride would turn into a nightmare.
A Day of Fun Turns to Tragedy
On June 23, 2022, Christopher visited the theme park with his younger brother, Alex, and their cousin, Kyle. Having just graduated from San Diego State University, Christopher was described as being in excellent health and filled with excitement for a day of fun at one of Southern California’s beloved amusement parks.
However, once the trio mounted the X2 roller coaster, the experience quickly took a dark turn. Described in the lawsuit as a ride that “jerks its riders around like rag dolls,” the X2 features rotating seats and multiple inversions that can leave even the most seasoned thrill-seekers dizzy and disoriented. Christopher found himself seated alone in his row, while his brother and cousin sat behind him during the chaotic ride.
The Incident
As the ride concluded, eyewitnesses reported that Christopher stumbled while attempting to exit, reaching for the handrail for support. He complained of severe head pain before collapsing on the ground. Paramedics quickly arrived on the scene and rushed him to the hospital. Unfortunately, doctors discovered a potentially fatal 1.5-centimeter subdural hematoma, a type of brain injury. Despite undergoing emergency surgery, Christopher tragically passed away just one day later on June 24, 2022.
A Lawsuit Emerges
In the wake of this tragedy, Christopher’s family decided to take a stand and file a lawsuit against Six Flags Magic Mountain and the ride’s manufacturer, S&S Worldwide. They allege that Christopher’s devastating brain injury and eventual death were directly caused by the head trauma he sustained on the ride. The lawsuit also points fingers at negligence, a design defect, and a failure to adequately warn riders about the potential for injury.
The family’s attorney has indicated that the X2 ride has a history of safety concerns, with reports of previous injuries to riders. However, this incident is reportedly the first fatality linked to the ride. Claims have emerged that Six Flags was aware of past incidents yet continued to operate the ride without making proper modifications.
Seeking Justice
As the Hawley family seeks $10 million or more in compensatory damages, they express a strong desire for accountability and change. They hope to prevent future tragedies from occurring on this ride, ensuring that no other family has to endure the same heartbreak. Meanwhile, the trial is set to start on October 13, 2025, in Los Angeles County Superior Court.
Six Flags Magic Mountain has publicly denied the allegations outlined in the lawsuit, but they have opted not to comment further on the ongoing litigation. As the court date approaches, many are left wondering what changes, if any, might come to the X2 ride and whether this tragedy will lead to increased scrutiny and safety measures in amusement parks across the country.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragedy at Six Flags Magic Mountain: Family Files Lawsuit
Additional Resources
- SFGATE: California Theme Park Roller Coaster Death Lawsuit
- ABC7: Garden Grove Family Files Lawsuit
- KTLA: Young Man Suffers Fatal Brain Injury
- OC Register: Six Flags Magic Mountain Coaster Lawsuit
- People: 22-Year-Old Died After Riding Roller Coaster
- Google Search: Six Flags Magic Mountain X2 Accident
- Wikipedia: Roller Coaster
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Amusement Park
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Brain Injury
- Google News: Six Flags Magic Mountain
