Boy Dies on World’s Tallest Water Slide at Schlitterbahn

By THC Staff | August 9, 2016

 

On Sunday, a 10-year-old boy died while riding Verruckt, a 168-foot-tall water slide at Schlitterbahn Water Park in Kansas.

Verruckt was dubbed the “world’s tallest water slide” by the Guinness Book of World Records upon its debut in 2014. At roughly 15 stories tall, the ride plunges thrill-seekers from the top and then up and down a hill. Multiple people can fit in the 100-pound rafts, and each rider must be 54 inches tall. It’s one of the most popular rides at Schlitterbahn.

No video of the drop, but I'm pretty sure we #airdropped off of the hump. 168ft. Nearly vert drop and @gagexmcbryar in front. World Tallest waterside, and I'd do it again and again. #insane #Verruckt #Schlitterbahn. ?????

A video posted by Ryan Mcbryar (@rmcbryar) on Jul 28, 2016 at 8:19pm PDT

Many details have not been released, and originally authorities were holding back the name of the boy who passed away. Since his father, Rep. Scott Schwab is a public figure, his wife released their son’s name and asked for privacy during this awful time for their family.

ABC 13 reports that her statement heart wrenchingly said, “Since the day he was born, he brought abundant joy to our family and all those he came in contact with.”

Seconds before being one of the first three to ride the worlds tallest water slide, I was caught on a go pro contemplating my decision to be on the first raft down. Totally worth it! Taller than the Eiffel Tower at 178 feet. Like for the Texas flag bathing suit.. It was on the Travel Channel! #verruckt

A photo posted by Nick Tyson (@nick_tyson) on Jun 8, 2016 at 4:29pm PDT

The ride’s opening was delayed two years ago because of issues with the conveyor system that moved the rafts to the top of the drop. A section of the slide also had to be rebuilt after test runs with sandbags caused the bags to fly off of the sides. But all seemed to be running according to plan once it opened to the public. Now, Verruckt is closed down and will remain so while the accident is under investigation.