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Credit: International Drive OrlandoAn Orange County jury has awarded $310 million in damages to the family of Tyre Sampson, the 14-year-old boy who tragically fell to his death while riding the FreeFall drop tower at ICON Park in March 2022. The verdict holds Funtime Handels, the ride’s manufacturer, accountable for the devastating incident.
The accident occurred while Sampson, visiting Orlando on spring break, was riding the FreeFall drop tower, a thrill ride that drops passengers over 400 feet. During the descent, Sampson slipped out of his harness and fell to the ground, suffering fatal injuries.
A subsequent investigation revealed that two seats on the ride had been modified to accommodate larger riders, including Sampson, whose weight exceeded the ride’s posted safety limits by approximately 100 pounds. This critical information, however, was not visibly communicated to riders.
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Investigation and Accountability
The investigation, conducted by state officials, confirmed reports that improper adjustments to the ride’s safety features allowed Sampson to slip from his seat. Following the tragedy, the ride’s operator was fined, and the FreeFall tower was permanently dismantled.
The Sampson family initially filed lawsuits against multiple entities, including ICON Park and the ride’s operator, which were later settled out of court. This latest case focused on Funtime Handels, the Austria-based company responsible for manufacturing the FreeFall ride. The jury’s decision highlights the company’s negligence in designing and maintaining safety standards for the attraction.
An Orange County jury has ordered amusement ride manufacturer Funtime Handels to pay $310 million to the family of Tyre Sampson, the 14-year-old who fell to his death while riding the Orlando FreeFall drop tower at ICON Park in March 2022.
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— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) December 5, 2024
Family’s Fight for Justice
The $310 million verdict is one of the largest compensations awarded in such cases, sending a strong message about the importance of safety and accountability in the amusement park industry. The Sampson family’s legal team argued that the manufacturer failed to implement adequate safety measures and communicate weight restrictions effectively, leading to the fatal oversight.
Tyre Sampson’s death has prompted calls for stricter safety regulations and greater transparency in amusement park operations. Industry experts and regulators continue to emphasize the need for clear communication about ride restrictions and thorough oversight to prevent similar tragedies in the future. As the family moves forward, this landmark ruling underscores their enduring fight for justice in Tyre’s name.