The tragic death of 14-year-old Tire Sampson, who was visiting Florida’s ICON Park with his family, has shocked the nation when a graphic video of the accident went viral.
His father found out about his son’s death through this video he saw posted online, which resulted in an immense amount of pain and suffering for his family after such a sudden loss.
These events make us think about the importance of security measures to prevent these unfortunate events from happening again; thankfully ICON Park is investigating the security measures.
ICON Park in Orlando, Florida is known for its extreme rides, the most notorious of which is free fall.
The experience lifts riders more than 400 feet before plunging to the ground at speeds in excess of 75 mph.
This week, 14-year-old Jaxon Woodard was among those brave enough to ride along – unfortunately it cost him his life.
He had gone with a friend from his football team as part of their spring break celebration when disaster struck; Woodard suffered serious injuries and died shortly afterwards.
His story serves as a stark reminder to exercise caution when taking risks on thrilling rides like this one.
The news was abruptly delivered to Tire’s father, Yarnell Sampson, after discovering a graphic online video of the devastating accident.
Mr. Sampson expressed his grief to NBC affiliate WESH, saying he wished he could have been there for his son.
He seeks answers from the park about the events leading up to the 14-year-old’s death and what else could have been done to prevent it.
It is uncertain whether the tragedy could have been averted or not, but there is no doubt that this grief-stricken family will never forget their beloved Tyre.
“The incalculable, unquantifiable loss of an amusement park ride is the reality that continues to haunt grieving parents everywhere.
Particularly poignant is how this tragedy uniquely affected a father who said, “I want to know what happened to my son. I want to know why he can’t walk back home but has to be sent back in a white bag.’
An emotional reminder of how life’s greatest gifts can sometimes be cut short with far-reaching consequences.
The complex healing process can never be complete: ‘It felt like someone hit me so hard in the stomach. I just lost, I just lost, [and] lost wind.’
No amount of money or objects can replace the stolen moments of a child’s bright future.
Answers must be sought and reparations must be made for the ongoing pain caused by such a heartbreaking turn of events.”
Tire was an inspiring success story; in high school he had already become a football recruit. His father reported, “Tire was 6’5 and 340 pounds [154kg]so he’s a big guy.
He was exploring several high schools and seemed to have a bright future ahead of him when his life was tragically cut short.
His family is joined by leading lawyers, Ben Crump and Bob Hilliard, who are demanding justice for their son and repercussions for the drive that caused the accident.
The family has pushed for the ride to be permanently closed and is seeking answers as to how such a tragedy could happen.
The heartbreaking news about Tire revealed a problem that unfortunately plagues theme park safety regulations.
After being banned from two park rides due to his height, which was 50 pounds over the FreeFall limit, one last ride attempt ended tragically when the teen’s harness was found in a down and locked position.
A memorial has been erected in ICON Park in tribute to Tire’s memory, with people leaving balloons to commemorate him.
This tragedy is an apt reminder why safety measures must be thoroughly monitored and enforced to prevent similar accidents from happening again in the future.
