GREENVILLE, SC – A tragic accident at a popular upstate amusement park has claimed the life of a 17-year-old employee, leaving a community in mourning and raising questions about safety protocols. The incident occurred at Frankie’s Fun Park on Woodruff Road, where Kamille Savion Sewell, a beloved team member, lost his life in a collision involving a go-kart and an industrial forklift.
Witnesses describe the harrowing moments leading up to the crash, noting the lack of visibility in the area due to cloudy weather and the uniform gray paint that made the forklift prongs blend into the pavement. The forklift was reportedly parked with its prongs extended several feet off the ground, creating an unforeseen hazard.
A coworker, who requested anonymity, recounted the chilling scene, expressing disbelief and sorrow over the avoidable nature of the incident. “I saw him speed up, then heard a loud bang. It was terrifying,” the coworker shared, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures at amusement parks statewide.
The Greenville County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Sewell was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, as it was not required by the park’s current policies. This has sparked a conversation about the necessity of revisiting safety regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Sewell’s colleagues remember him as a warm and friendly individual who always greeted guests and coworkers with a smile. “He was very hospitable and great to everyone,” a coworker recalled, underscoring the deep impact his loss has had on the team.
As the community grapples with this loss, there is a growing call for amusement parks to prioritize safety and consider modifications to existing protocols. The incident has highlighted potential gaps in safety standards, particularly concerning the operation and visibility of industrial equipment near recreational areas.
The coroner’s office plans to conduct an official examination of Sewell, with more details to be released as they become available. Meanwhile, Frankie’s Fun Park has not yet commented on the incident or announced any changes to its safety policies.
This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the importance of rigorous safety measures in environments where the potential for accidents exists. The community, while grieving, hopes that Sewell’s untimely death will lead to meaningful changes that enhance safety for all amusement park visitors and employees.