Jury Awards $310 Million in Amusement Ride Death

A Florida jury has awarded $310 million to the family of Tyre Sampson, a 14-year-old who died after falling from the FreeFall drop tower at ICON Park in Orlando in March 2022. The Austrian manufacturer, Funtime Handels, was found liable after failing to attend the trial, leading to a default judgment. The lawsuit alleged that the ride lacked proper safety measures, including seatbelts, and did not adequately inform riders about weight restrictions. Sampson, who was over the weight limit, slipped out of the harness and suffered fatal injuries. This verdict highlights the negligence of the ride's manufacturer and aims to encourage stricter safety regulations in the amusement industry. The ride was dismantled following the incident, which drew significant public attention and scrutiny.