Technician Says Florida Thrill Ride Was Unsafe Before Accident

In a shocking revelation, a technician who worked on the FreeFall thrill ride at ICON Park in Orlando, Florida, has come forward with serious safety concerns. The technician, who chose to remain anonymous, stated that the ride was not safe for operation before the tragic accident that resulted in the death of 14-year-old Tyre Sampson on March 24, 2022. The incident occurred when Sampson, who was over the ride's weight limit, fell from his seat, prompting a thorough investigation into the ride's safety protocols and maintenance.

The technician's allegations add a new layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation. According to the technician, multiple issues with the ride's safety mechanisms were reported and ignored by management. These included problems with the seat sensors and harnesses, which are critical for ensuring riders' safety. The technician expressed frustration over the lack of action taken to address these concerns, suggesting that the tragedy could have been prevented if proper maintenance and safety checks had been conducted.

Following the accident, the FreeFall ride was immediately shut down, and an investigation by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services was launched. The findings of this investigation have led to increased scrutiny of amusement park safety standards across the state. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the need for stricter regulations and oversight to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The family of Tyre Sampson has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the ride's operators, manufacturers, and the property owners, seeking accountability for their negligence. As the legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on ensuring that amusement park rides are safe for all visitors, highlighting the importance of rigorous safety checks and maintenance.

• Florida
• FreeFall
• ICON Park
• Tyre Sampson