A seven-year-old boy, Jean Kylian Essombe, has died after a bouncy castle was swept into the air by a sudden gust of wind during a youth football tournament in Belgium.
The tragic incident happened during the Youth Cup tournament in Hamme, a municipality in East Flanders, where young players and their families had gathered for the sporting event.
Essombe had been playing on the inflatable attraction with friends when strong winds reportedly lifted the bouncy castle high into the air.
According to the Daily Mail, the youngster was thrown against a fence, suffering critical injuries in front of horrified spectators.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene and treated Jean before transferring him to AZ Sint-Blasius hospital. He was later moved to UZ Gent hospital for specialist treatment, but sadly succumbed to his injuries while under medical care.
Three other children who were injured during the incident were also taken to the hospital for medical checks. Reports indicated that Jean had attended the tournament to cheer on his older brother, Louis, who was playing for SK Wambeek-Ternat’s Under-10 side.
Authorities in East Flanders have since launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Prosecutors are reportedly examining whether the inflatable had been properly secured and if all required safety measures had been followed. A court-appointed expert was also sent to inspect the scene.
The devastating loss has left the local community in mourning, with Jean’s primary school in Liedekerke describing the heartbreak felt by staff and pupils.
Football club SK Wambeek-Ternat also paid tribute to the young boy, remembering him as cheerful, energetic and beloved by those around him.
Essombe was hailed as not only a talented player but also a wonderful friend who was always full of enthusiasm and with a smile on his face.
The club added that its thoughts were with the youngster’s parents, his brother Louis, relatives and friends during the difficult time.
VW Hamme, the host club for the tournament, said the tragedy had cast a shadow over what should have been a joyful day for young footballers and their families.
