Family of Teen Who Fell from Florida Amusement Ride Wins $310 Million Verdict

The jury held ride manufacturer Funtime-Handels accountable for safety failures that led to Tyre Sampson's 2022 death, prompting new legislation on amusement ride safety.

Tyre Sampson, a 14-year-old from Missouri, died in March 2022 after falling from the Orlando FreeFall ride at ICON Park due to inadequate safety restraints.
The jury awarded $310 million in damages to Sampson's family, citing negligence by Austrian ride manufacturer Funtime-Handels for failing to include seat belts on the ride.
Investigators found that ride operators had manually altered harnesses to accommodate larger passengers, allowing Sampson to board despite exceeding the ride's weight limit of 285 pounds.
The tragedy led to the passage of the Tyre Sampson Act in Florida, which mandates stricter safety regulations for amusement rides, including seat belts and enhanced inspections.
The ride was dismantled following public outcry, and settlements were previously reached with ICON Park and the ride operator, Orlando Eagle Drop Slingshot.