A seven-year-old boy has died after being thrown from a bouncy castle during a youth football tournament in Belgium. Jean Kylian Essombe, a talented young footballer, was launched across a field in Hamme when a sudden gust of wind sent the inflatable flying. He reportedly hit a fence and suffered life-threatening injuries.
Emergency crews rushed to treat him at the scene before he was taken to AZ Sint-Blasius hospital and later to UZ Gent medical facility. Despite doctors' efforts, he tragically died just hours later. Three other children were also injured and taken to hospital for checks.
The incident occurred on Saturday, May 9, during the Youth Cup tournament in Hamme. Jean had been watching his older brother Louis play for Wambeek-Ternat's U10 team. Earlier in the day, he had played in another tournament for the same club in a younger age group.
Authorities in East Flanders have opened an investigation into the fatal accident. Officials are examining whether the bouncy castle had been properly secured and if safety rules were followed.
SK Wambeek-Ternat paid tribute to the young star, saying: 'With deep sadness, we learned the news about Jean. It is hard to comprehend that someone so young and full of life has left us. Jeanke was not only a talented player, but above all a wonderful friend, always full of enthusiasm and with a smile on his face.'
KFC Wambeek-Ternat, which has around 600 players, cancelled all activities over the weekend as a mark of respect. Club chairman Jos Donvil said: 'It was a tragic accident. We now have only one task, and that is to give the right support to the parents, trainers and family.'
