One of the most horrifying amusement park tragedies in U.S. history is drawing renewed scrutiny after details resurfaced about the death of 10-year-old Caleb Schwab, who was decapitated on the Verrückt water slide at Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Kansas City, Kansas. The incident, which occurred in 2016, continues to highlight critical concerns about water park safety, ride design, and corporate accountability.
Caleb Schwab was attending a “free admission” day at Schlitterbahn with his family when he boarded the Verrückt water slide, which was billed as the world’s tallest at the time. The ride sent multi-person rafts down a nearly vertical drop at speeds exceeding 65 mph. During Caleb’s descent, his raft became airborne, causing him to strike the ride’s overhead safety netting. He was decapitated by impact, dying instantly. Two other passengers sustained serious injuries.
Following the incident, the Verrückt slide was permanently closed and later dismantled. However, recent reexamination of the case continues to shine a light on gross negligence and poor safety practices, including:
While criminal charges were initially filed against Schlitterbahn executives and designers, many of them were later dismissed due to prosecutorial errors and lack of evidence deemed admissible. Nevertheless, the Schwab family reached a civil settlement with the park, and the case remains a landmark example of how dangerous thrill rides can be when safety is sacrificed for publicity.
Attorney Michael Haggard, Esq., an experienced advocate for drowning and amusement park injury victims, stresses the importance of accountability:
“The death of Caleb Schwab was a completely preventable tragedy caused by reckless design and a disregard for basic safety standards. Families have every right to expect that amusement park attractions are engineered and operated with their well-being as the top priority. When that trust is violated, the consequences are devastating—and justice must be pursued.”
If a loved one has been injured or killed at a water park or amusement facility, families may have legal grounds to pursue a wrongful death or personal injury claim. These lawsuits not only provide financial relief but also serve as a force for policy change and improved safety standards.
Victims and their families may be eligible to recover damages for:
Attorney Michael Haggard, Esq. has a long history of representing families affected by tragic accidents at pools, amusement parks, and waterparks. His firm is committed to uncovering negligence, holding corporations accountable, and pushing for changes that protect others from similar harm.
If you or a loved one has suffered a tragic injury at a water park, contact Attorney Michael Haggard, Esq. today for a free consultation to explore your legal rights and take the first step toward justice and safety reform.
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