In a landmark verdict, a Florida jury has awarded $310 million to the family of 14-year-old Tyre Sampson, who tragically fell from a drop ride at an Orlando theme park in 2022.
Jury Awards $310 Million to Family of Teen Who Died in Orlando Amusement Ride Incident
Jury Awards $310 Million to Family of Teen Who Died in Orlando Amusement Ride Incident
A Florida jury holds amusement ride manufacturer accountable after tragic fall.
The jury found that Tyre's death was due to significant safety violations and negligence from the ride's operators and manufacturer, Funtime Handels GMBH. Despite weighing 43kg over the ride's limit, he was not provided with restraint systems on the ride. Tyre's tragic accident occurred while he was visiting ICON Park with his football team. Although he was rushed to a nearby hospital, he succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.
In the court proceedings, Tyre's family emphasized that the case represented more than just a financial settlement. Their attorney, Ben Crump, asserted that the verdict signified the urgent need for corporations to prioritize safety. The jury's award was specifically made for "pain and suffering as a result of Tyre Sampson's injury and death."
Tyre Sampson has been remembered by his family as a "really good kid" who touched the lives of many. His uncle, Carl Sampson, spoke movingly about Tyre's character and intelligence. Following the incident, Florida has moved towards stricter regulations in amusement park safety, culminating in the enactment of the Tyre Simpson Act which mandates seat belts and harnesses on rides over 100 feet tall, introduced by Governor Ron DeSantis in May 2023.
This verdict showcases a critical step forward in holding manufacturers accountable for safety to prevent future tragedies in amusement parks across the state.
In the court proceedings, Tyre's family emphasized that the case represented more than just a financial settlement. Their attorney, Ben Crump, asserted that the verdict signified the urgent need for corporations to prioritize safety. The jury's award was specifically made for "pain and suffering as a result of Tyre Sampson's injury and death."
Tyre Sampson has been remembered by his family as a "really good kid" who touched the lives of many. His uncle, Carl Sampson, spoke movingly about Tyre's character and intelligence. Following the incident, Florida has moved towards stricter regulations in amusement park safety, culminating in the enactment of the Tyre Simpson Act which mandates seat belts and harnesses on rides over 100 feet tall, introduced by Governor Ron DeSantis in May 2023.
This verdict showcases a critical step forward in holding manufacturers accountable for safety to prevent future tragedies in amusement parks across the state.
