A jury has awarded $310 million to the parents of 14-year-old Tyre Sampson, who tragically fell to his death from the FreeFall ride at ICON Park in Orlando, Florida, in March 2022. The verdict, which marks one of the largest amusement park-related payouts in history, has sparked renewed calls for improved safety standards across the industry.
A Tragic Incident
Tyre, a high school football player visiting from Missouri, fell approximately 100 feet during the ride’s descent. Investigations revealed that Tyre, who exceeded the ride’s weight limit by over 100 pounds, had been seated in a harness that was manually adjusted to accommodate him. This adjustment created a nearly seven-inch gap, which ultimately failed to secure him properly during the ride.
The FreeFall ride, known as the tallest freestanding drop tower in the world at 430 feet, had been operational for less than a year before the fatal incident. The ride’s manufacturer, Funtime Handels of Austria, and its operators faced criticism for inadequate safety measures and insufficient staff training.
Legal Battle and Accountability
Tyre’s parents, Nekia Dodd and Yarnell Sampson, filed a wrongful death lawsuit, arguing that the ride’s design and safety protocols were fundamentally flawed. The lawsuit also alleged negligence on the part of the operators, who failed to properly enforce weight restrictions and ensure passenger safety.
In December 2024, the jury’s decision awarded $155 million to each parent, sending a strong message about the consequences of negligence in the amusement park industry. The lawsuit not only provided justice for Tyre’s family but also highlighted systemic issues in ride safety and operator accountability.
Industry-Wide Implications
The FreeFall ride was permanently closed and later demolished following the tragedy. Tyre’s family has since become vocal advocates for improving safety standards at amusement parks, calling for stricter enforcement of weight limits, enhanced staff training, and better regulatory oversight.
The case has drawn national attention, with lawmakers and industry leaders discussing the need for comprehensive safety reforms to prevent similar tragedies. The verdict is expected to set a precedent for future lawsuits and reinforce the importance of prioritizing guest safety.
A Family’s Hope for Change
While the $310 million verdict cannot bring Tyre back, his parents hope that the outcome will lead to meaningful change within the amusement park industry. “We want no other family to go through what we have endured,” said Tyre’s mother, Nekia Dodd. “This verdict is not just about justice for Tyre; it’s about making sure this never happens again.”
The case has become a somber reminder of the critical need for vigilance and accountability in ensuring the safety of thrill-seekers at amusement parks nationwide.