A former executive at an amusement park in Kansas, US, has been charged over the death of a 10-year-old boy killed 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 after suffering head injuries when his raft went airborne and struck a pole on the Verrückt ride. The ride features a 169ft (52m) drop and speeds of 65mph (105km/h).
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 alleges 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 over the charges, stating Miles demonstrated the highest dedication to safety. A company spokeswoman said their review found no evidence of criminal conduct.
