Caleb Schwab Autopsy Report Exclusive Jun 2026

The death of 10-year-old Caleb Schwab on the water slide at Schlitterbahn WaterPark

The 2016 death of 10-year-old Caleb Schwab on the Verrückt waterslide at Schlitterbahn Kansas City was caused by decapitation after the raft went airborne and his head struck a safety support hoop. Investigations revealed significant safety issues, including loose Velcro straps and a total raft weight of 545 pounds, leading to the permanent closure of the ride and park. For more information, read the reporting from

Our exclusive analysis of the Caleb Schwab autopsy report reveals several critical aspects:

In the aftermath of Caleb's death, his family filed a lawsuit against the boat's manufacturer, alleging that the vessel was defectively designed. The lawsuit claimed that the boat's design and lack of safety features contributed to Caleb's death.

: On August 7, 2016, the raft Caleb was riding went airborne at the crest of the slide's second hump, causing him to collide with the overhead metal hoops and netting designed to keep riders from falling off. Spectrum News Safety Failures and Equipment Findings

The Caleb Schwab autopsy report exclusive serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and the need for continued awareness and advocacy. As we honor Caleb's memory, we hope that this report will contribute to a better understanding of the events surrounding his death and inspire positive change.

The tragic accident led to significant legal action against the park and its executives:

: Experts noted that the raft's weight distribution may have played a critical role in it becoming airborne. Legal and Park Outcomes Caleb Schwab: What We Know About the Water Slide Death