Adult driver shared go-kart with Riddle when another vehicle struck theirs during birthday party
December 07, 2025 | Port St Lucie, FL
A heartbreaking incident at Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park in Port St. Lucie claimed the life of 6-year-old Emma Riddle following a go-kart collision on Dec. 6.
Emma was enjoying her sister's birthday party at the adventure park when the accident occurred around 8:51 p.m. She was riding in a go-kart accompanied by an adult at the time of the crash.
Emma Riddle, 6, of Port St. Lucie, died after another go-kart collided with hers at Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park during her sister's birthday celebration.
What Happened in the Crash?
The collision involved two go-karts, with one striking the vehicle carrying Emma. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene.
- Location: Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, Port St. Lucie, Florida
- Date and Time: Dec. 6, 2025, approximately 8:51 p.m.
- Victim: Emma Riddle, age 6, from Port St. Lucie
- Injuries: Severe, Emma was airlifted to HCA Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce
- Outcome: Emma succumbed to her injuries the following day
The family has set up a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs during this difficult time.
Why Do Amusement Park Accidents Like This Occur?
Amusement park attractions, including go-karts, carry inherent risks that can lead to serious incidents. Factors such as mechanical failures, operator error, or inadequate safety measures often contribute to these tragedies.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), amusement rides are involved in thousands of injuries annually, with go-karts accounting for a significant portion due to high speeds and close-quarters operation.
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
|---|
Annual Amusement Ride Injuries |
Over 30,000 |
CPSC (2023 Report) |
Go-Kart Related Incidents |
Approximately 15% of total |
International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) |
Fatalities in Go-Kart Accidents |
Rare but increasing in adventure parks |
CDC Injury Data (2022) |
Common Causes |
Collisions (45%), Mechanical Issues (30%) |
National Safety Council |
Ongoing Investigations
The Port St. Lucie Police Department is leading the inquiry into the crash circumstances. Additionally, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are reviewing the park's safety protocols and amusement attraction oversight.
Authorities aim to determine the root cause to prevent future occurrences. The investigation is active, with no further details released at this time.
Legal Insights
In cases such as amusement park collisions, determining the precise cause is essential for accountability and prevention. National legal analysts provide guidance on navigating these complex situations.
“It is imperative to come to a determination of the exact cause of these types of accidents. An attorney has the resources to review applicable insurance coverage, hire witnesses, run background checks, and locate witnesses. We carefully guide the family of the victim through the process,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal.
Bond emphasized the importance of an independent investigation to preserve vital evidence.
“In addition to a police report, an attorney will carefully review what may have contributed to the crash. A lawyer has the resources to hire witnesses, conduct drivers’ background checks, locate witnesses to the crash and review applicable insurance coverage. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help guide an injury victim through what can be a complicated process.”
- Preserve evidence through prompt independent reviews
- Explore insurance coverage and liability early
- Hire specialists to analyze mechanical and operational factors
- Support families in pursuing rightful claims for losses
Pending results, Emma's family may pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for companionship loss, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
"The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. "We understand just what families are forced to go through, and protecting their rights is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected."
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If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).