A fun-filled day at a world-famous Florida theme park turned to tragedy this week after a teenage boy fell from a high-speed rollercoaster.
The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon at Universal Orlando Resort's Volcano Bay water park. The victim, a 14-year-old boy from Missouri, was on the 'Freestyle' slide, a multi-rider attraction that sends guests down a series of twists and turns in a raft.
Emergency Response
Orange County Fire Rescue responded to an emergency call at the park around 2:20 pm local time. Reports indicate the teenager fell from a significant height on the ride. Despite immediate life-saving efforts from paramedics, he was pronounced dead after being transported to a nearby hospital.
In a statement, a Universal Orlando spokesperson said, "We are devastated by the incident and our hearts go out to the guest's family. We have closed the attraction pending a full investigation."
Ride Profile and Safety Questions
The 'Freestyle' slide is part of the Krakatau Aqua Coaster complex within the park. It is described as a family ride where guests board multi-person rafts. The exact circumstances that led to the fall are unknown and are the subject of an ongoing investigation by the Orange County Sheriff's Office.
This tragic event is sure to raise serious questions about ride safety protocols and supervision at major amusement parks. Industry experts will be watching the investigation closely.
Universal Orlando has confirmed it is cooperating fully with authorities. Grief counsellors have been made available to park staff and witnesses affected by the traumatic event.
