ORLANDO, Fla. – In a significant legal conclusion, a Florida jury has ruled that the family of a 14-year-old boy who tragically died after falling from a ride at an Orlando amusement park should receive $310 million in compensation. The incident, which claimed the life of Tyre Sampson on March 24, 2022, occurred when he fell from the Free Fall ride at ICON Park, plummeting approximately 70 feet.
The court concluded that Funtime, the Austria-based manufacturer of the ride, shoulders half of the financial responsibility, directing them to pay $155 million to each of Sampson’s parents. Remarkably, the verdict came after Funtime’s legal representation ceased involvement in the proceedings, leading to what is legally termed a default judgment after just a one-day trial focusing on wrongful death.
Previously, ICON Park reached a settlement with Sampson’s family under undisclosed terms. However, the lion’s share of financial liability has now been attributed to Funtime by the legal system. The judgment noted the company’s failure to ensure adequate safety measures were in place on the Free Fall ride.
According to authorities, Sampson, who stood 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighed 380 pounds, was not securely fastened into the ride due to the malfunctioning restraint system designed for his size. This critical malfunction occurred despite his seat’s shoulder harness not locking properly, causing him to fall as the ride braked suddenly.
His parents have contended that both ICON Park and Funtime should have been more transparent about the ride’s potential risks, especially given their son’s physique. They argued that the basic restraint system provided on the ride was insufficient for individuals of his size. Additionally, it was revealed that enhancing the ride with additional seat belts would have incurred a cost of only $660.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Free Fall ride was permanently closed and is currently being dismantled. Despite the ride’s closure, the legal ramifications underscore ongoing concerns regarding ride safety standards and manufacturer accountability in the amusement park industry.
To enforce the jury’s compensation ruling, Sampson’s family will need to pursue the collection of the awarded sum through the Austrian courts, given Funtime’s international status.
This legal case highlights not only the tragic consequences of lapses in ride safety but also the complex international legal challenges families often face when seeking justice in such heartbreaking scenarios.
This article was compiled using generative AI tools and may contain inaccuracies in personal details, events, or circumstances. Readers seeking corrections or clarifications can reach out via email to [email protected].