A seven-year-old boy has di£d after the bouncy castle he was on was flung into the air by powerful wind.
Jean Kylian Essombe, an enthusiastic footballer, was thrown across a field in Hamme, Belgium, when a sudden gust of wind sent the inflatable he was on into the air, and the young boy collided with a fence, sustaining critical injuries.
Emergency services hurried to administer aid at the scene before he was transported to AZ Sint-Blasius hospital and later to UZ Gent medical facility.
Tragically, Jean passed away just hours later despite doctors’ efforts to save him. Three other children were also hurt and were taken to hospital for examination during the incident.
Jean had been watching his older brother participate in a youth football tournament named the Youth Cup in Hamme, on Saturday, May 9, when the horror occurred.
It’s believed Jean had attended the tournament to cheer on his brother Louis, who was playing for Wambeek-Ternat’s U10 team, reports the Mirror. Earlier in the day, Jean is thought to have competed in another tournament for the same club but for the age group two years younger.
Authorities in East Flanders have now initiated an investigation into the fatal incident, with officials reportedly scrutinising whether the bouncy castle had been adequately secured and safety regulations had been adhered to.
SK Wambeek-Ternat paid a heart-wrenching tribute to the young talent.
The team said: “With deep sadness, we learned the news about Jean. It is hard to comprehend that someone so young and full of life has left us.
“Jeanke was not only a talented player, but above all a wonderful friend, always full of enthusiasm and with a smile on his face. We will never forget the joy he shared. Our thoughts are with his parents, his brother Louis, his family and friends at this difficult time.”
KFC Wambeek-Ternat, which boasts approximately 600 players, called off all weekend fixtures as a tribute while pledging ongoing support for the youngsters, parents, coaches and Jean’s loved ones in the weeks ahead.
Club chairman Jos Donvil said: “It was a tragic accident. We now have only one task, and that is to give the right support to the parents, trainers and family.”
He continued: “His brother, who also plays with us, has lost his playmate.”
Meanwhile, neighbouring club FCV Dender EH Jeugd stated: “We would like to express our sincere condolences and heartfelt support after the tragic death of a young player from our football region. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, teammates, trainers and everyone at KFC Wambeek Ternat, Next Youth Generation and VW Hamme. Wishing you lots of strength and warmth in this particularly difficult period.”