LOWELL, N.C. — The tragic death of a 12-year-old boy who died after falling from a climbing wall at a Gaston County trampoline park is now getting the attention of some lawmakers.
Altitude Trampoline Park on East Franklin Boulevard reopened over the weekend a few days after last week's incident, but the climbing wall where the 12-year-old died remains closed.
While Altitude said its facilities exceed the industry's safety standards and are certified by ASTM International, no government agencies conduct specialized inspections of trampoline parks.
NBC Charlotte reached out to the offices of every state lawmaker in Gaston County for each legislator's thoughts on whether regulatory oversight is needed for trampoline parks.
"As soon as I get back, I'm going to ask around, especially in the Gaston delegation, to see what their thoughts are," Rep. Kelly Hastings (R-110) said. "I'm sure that they're upset just as I am."
He expects this tragedy will likely spur action from the General Assembly.
"I would probably predict that a legislative remedy would be sought," Rep. Hastings said.
However, no lawmaker has stepped forward yet to propose legislation.
In response, Courtney Wilde, Altitude Trampoline Park's Executive VP of Global Operations, released the following statement:
“We want to stress our position in the industry as safety leaders. We are always working to make this experience as safe as possible, and as we’ve made clear this tragedy will prompt a full reexamination. If there is something to improve we will make sure it’s done and encourage the rest of the industry to follow.”