The tragic death of 10-year-old Caleb Schwab on the Verrückt waterslide at Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Kansas City, Kansas, remains one of the most devastating incidents in amusement park history. Caleb’s untimely death occurred when his raft went airborne, resulting in a fatal collision with a metal pole that reportedly caused decapitation.
The Day of the Incident
On August 7, 2016, Caleb, the son of Kansas state legislator Scott Schwab, visited Schlitterbahn Waterpark with his family. Verrückt, the world’s tallest waterslide, stood at an imposing 170 feet with a dramatic 17-story drop followed by a 55-foot crest. Designed with netting supported by metal poles to enhance rider safety, the slide offered a thrilling yet precarious experience.
After climbing 264 steps to the top, Caleb boarded a raft with two other riders. As the raft reached the crest at high speed, it went airborne, striking one of the poles. The devastating impact led to Caleb’s death, leaving witnesses in shock.
An onlooker described the scene as unimaginable, telling Texas Monthly, “It was as horrible a moment as you could imagine. A nightmare beyond comprehension.”
Caleb’s brother Nathan, waiting at the base of the slide, screamed in distress, while their mother, Michele Schwab, was urged by a bystander not to approach the scene.
Aftermath and Legal Battles
The accident prompted immediate closure of the Verrückt waterslide. Schlitterbahn permanently dismantled the ride in 2018, following investigations that revealed a concerning history of safety issues. Reports indicated that at least 13 riders had sustained injuries before Caleb’s fatal accident.
In 2017, Caleb’s family received nearly $20 million in settlements from Schlitterbahn and other companies involved in the slide’s design and operation. Two women who were on the same raft as Caleb and sustained facial injuries and broken bones also received compensation.
Criminal Charges and Controversies
In 2018, charges were filed against Schlitterbahn co-owner Jeff Henry, slide designer John Schooley, operations manager Tyler Miles, and others. The charges ranged from second-degree murder to child endangerment. Prosecutors alleged gross negligence in prioritizing spectacle over safety and concealing prior injuries.
However, in 2019, a judge dismissed all charges due to improper evidence presented to the grand jury. The prosecution had relied on footage from a dramatized Travel Channel episode about the slide, which the court deemed fictional and inadmissible. Testimonies referencing outdated safety standards and unrelated incidents further weakened the case.
Judge Robert Burns concluded that the evidence presented to the grand jury lacked credibility, stating, “The circumstances and events giving rise to these indictments are indisputably tragic,” but emphasizing that the prosecution’s approach undermined the legal process.
Schlitterbahn’s Closure and Legislative Changes
Following the legal proceedings, Schlitterbahn closed its Kansas City location. Representatives expressed gratitude for public support and emphasized their commitment to safety, describing the incident as unprecedented in the park’s 50-year history.
The tragedy also led to legislative reforms in Kansas, with new laws mandating state inspections of amusement park attractions. Caleb’s family has since honored his memory by advocating for stricter safety regulations to prevent similar accidents.
A Tragic Legacy
Caleb Schwab’s death remains a somber reminder of the importance of safety in entertainment attractions. While the legal battles are over, his family and those affected continue to seek ways to ensure such tragedies are never repeated.