A former executive at a Kansas amusement park has been charged in connection with the death of a 10-year-old boy on a waterslide in 2016. Tyler Miles, ex-director of operations at Schlitterbahn Water Park, faces several counts including involuntary manslaughter.
The victim, Caleb Schwab, son of state politician Scott Schwab, died on 7 August 2016 while riding the Verrückt slide. He suffered fatal head injuries after his raft became airborne and struck a pole. The ride, once the world's tallest waterslide, features a 169ft (52m) drop and speeds of 65mph (105km/h).
A 19-month investigation led to the charges. According to the criminal indictment, experts found evidence that other rafts had previously gone airborne and collided with overhead poles and netting before the fatality. The indictment claims the ride violated nearly all industry safety standards and that those responsible attempted to conceal information from law enforcement.
Miles was released on bail set at $50,000 (£35,000). Schlitterbahn expressed disappointment in the charges, stating Miles demonstrated the highest dedication to safety during his employment. A company spokeswoman said their review found no evidence of criminal conduct.
