The son of a Kansas state representative died Sunday on the tallest water slide in the world at Schlitterbahn Waterpark.
Caleb Thomas Schwab, 10, was the son of Rep. Scott Schwab and his wife Michele, according to the Kansas City Star. The Schwabs released a statement Sunday evening:
"Since the day he was born, he brought abundant joy to our family and all those who he came into contact with," they said in the statement. "As we try to mend our home with him no longer with us, we are comforted knowing he believed in his Saviour, Jesus, and they are forever together now. We will see him another day.
He died on the 17-story Verruckt, considered the world's tallest water slide, around 3 p.m. local time, at the Schlitterbahn water park, according to KSN. Riders are supposed to be at least 54 inches tall and 14 years old, according to the Star. It was not known why the 10-year-old was on the ride.
"I don't have all the details for you (media) at this time and we are working to get more details for you," Winter Prosapio, a Schlitterbahn spokeswoman told KSN. "Our focus is on the family right now."
Verruckt, which means "insane" in German, is a 168-foot-tall water slide that opened in 2014. It takes 264 steps lead to the top. It is certified the world's tallest water slide by Guiness World Records.
The park was cleared and closed, according to KCTV. The park will be closed Monday as well.
Schlitterban to will reportedly reopen Wednesday, but the Verruckt will remain closed.
"We honestly don't know what's happened," Prosapio told the Star. "To be honest, this is not something we've experienced."
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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