Six Flags Magic Mountain Reopens Ninja

Officials from Six Flags Magic Mountain have announced that the suspended swinging coaster, Ninja, has reopened following an accident that took place about two weeks ago.

According to Six Flags spokeswoman, Sue Carpenter, on Friday; "After a thorough inspection by Cal/OSHA, Ninja has been cleared to reopen for operation."

The official investigation of the accident by California's Division of Occupational Safety and Health, has also revealed the actual events that took place as well.

“A tree had fallen against the ride track and a train had struck the tree, severing its right front wheel and causing the front axle to derail. The train continued approximately 30 feet further, stopped, and then rolled backward 20 feet before coming to a final rest with the front coach hanging on an angle,” said Peter Melton, a spokesman for California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health.

As a result, a total of 6 riders were injured in the accident. Four of them were treated at the park for minor injuries while two others were taken to hospital for further evaluation. None of the injuries were considered severe or life threatening.

Ninja received it's final inspection on Saturday, July 19th and opened later that day for guests, sans the train that was damaged. This is likely to mean the coaster will remain on one train operation for quite some time until it can be repaired.

Of course, considering the rarity of these types of coasters, it may never be and continue with one train for the rest of its life within the park.