In Orlando, Florida, jury selection is underway in the wrongful death trial concerning 14-year-old Tyre Sampson, who tragically fell from the Orlando FreeFall ride at ICON Park in March 2022. The case focuses on Funtime Handels, the Austrian company responsible for designing, manufacturing, testing, and inspecting the ride. Tyre’s parents, Nekia Dodd and Yarnell Sampson, seek justice for their son in a case that has brought international attention to safety regulations in the amusement industry.
Funtime Handels has chosen not to participate in the trial, a move that has shifted the court’s focus to determining the damages owed to the Sampson family. The judge has instructed jurors that the defendant has admitted to failing in certain duties related to the ride’s safety and design. These failures are at the heart of the family’s claims that Tyre’s death was preventable.
The Incident and Findings Tyre Sampson, visiting Orlando from St. Louis during spring break, fell to his death while riding the 430-foot-tall drop tower attraction. Investigations revealed that his seat’s restraints had been manually adjusted to accommodate his size, even though he weighed approximately 100 pounds over the ride’s recommended weight limit of 287 pounds. This adjustment rendered the safety harness ineffective, leading to Tyre’s fatal fall during the ride’s descent.
Legal documents presented in court show that Funtime Handels did not adhere to industry-standard guidelines in designing safety mechanisms for the ride. Post-accident inspections uncovered additional mechanical issues that posed risks to other riders, indicating a broader pattern of negligence.
Ongoing Trial and Settlements The Sampson family previously reached settlements with ICON Park and the ride’s operator, which included undisclosed amounts and commitments to improve safety measures. However, Funtime Handels declined to settle or defend itself in court, leaving its liability uncontested.
The jury’s decision will determine the financial damages awarded to Tyre’s family. This case underscores the importance of accountability in ensuring safety standards across amusement parks.
Legislative and Community Impact The tragedy spurred legislative action in Florida, resulting in the passage of the “Tyre Sampson Act” in May 2023. The law mandates stricter safety measures for amusement park rides, including the installation of seat belts and enhanced restraint systems for high-risk attractions. It also grants the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services the authority to conduct unannounced inspections.
ICON Park dismantled the Orlando FreeFall ride in March 2023, marking the end of its operation. Tyre’s parents continue to advocate for systemic changes to prevent similar tragedies, urging the amusement industry to prioritize safety over profits.
The case has become a pivotal moment for the amusement industry, highlighting the need for robust safety measures and corporate accountability. As the trial continues, the outcome will not only provide closure for Tyre’s family but also set a precedent for handling negligence in the amusement park sector.
