Drones collide and crash into crowd at Orlando holiday show
- During a holiday drone show in Orlando, several drones collided and fell into the audience, injuring a child.
- The injured boy was hospitalized after being struck by a falling drone, with the incident prompting the cancellation of the second show.
- City officials and the FAA are investigating the incident to prevent future accidents.
In Orlando, Florida, a holiday drone show turned tragic when several drones collided and fell into the crowd, injuring a young boy. The incident took place at Lake Eola Park around 6:45 p.m. on December 21, 2024, during a family-friendly event that was expected to entertain approximately 25,000 attendees. Witnesses reported seeing numerous drones crashing together as they formed a holiday-themed light display. The boy sustained injuries, described by his family as a drone striking him in the chest, and was promptly taken to a hospital for medical attention. Fire personnel who were on site managed an emergency tent, which was in close proximity to where the incident occurred. The show was part of a planned sequence of two drone performances, but following the accident, city officials decided to cancel the second show, citing 'technical difficulties.' This decision was compounded by earlier concerns noted by attendees observing the apparent failure of the drone display as they witnessed some drones malfunction during the first part of the scheduled shows. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which had permitted the event, has begun an investigation to uncover the cause of the collision and to evaluate the safety measures in place. Sky Elements Drones, the company responsible for operating the drone show, expressed regret for the distress caused by the incident and affirmed its commitment to audience safety by adhering to FAA regulations. The FAA stated that its thorough review process for drone shows is designed to ensure public safety and will provide a detailed examination of this incident. Community response to the situation has garnered concern for the safety of such public events, prompting discussions about the guidelines and regulations governing aerial displays. As investigations continue, city officials are working closely with the FAA and Sky Elements to gather information and ensure that such accidents do not happen in the future. Local representatives have offered thoughts to the affected families and reassured the public that accountability will be sought as they aim to maintain the safety of future aerial shows.