Daijiworld Media Network - Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo, Jun 14: A 21-year-old woman died during an adventure sports activity in Brazil after she was allegedly sent off a bridge without being properly secured to a safety rope, prompting authorities to launch a criminal investigation into the incident.
The victim, identified as Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas, was participating in a rope-jumping activity in the city of Limeira in Brazil's Sao Paulo state when the tragedy occurred.
According to local media reports, Maria was pushed from a height of around 130 feet during the activity, which is similar to bungee jumping and relies on specialised safety equipment to prevent injury.
Videos circulating on social media reportedly show staff members guiding the young woman to the edge of the bridge before allowing her to jump, apparently unaware that the crucial safety line had not been attached.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene after the fall, but Maria succumbed to her injuries.
Maria Eduarda, who was trained in Physical Education and Sports Management, lived in Jandira and frequently shared content related to travel and outdoor activities on social media. Reports said she had posted about the adventure experience shortly before the accident.
Brazilian authorities have launched an investigation to determine how the fatal error occurred and whether negligence was involved.
According to reports, six people associated with the operation of the attraction were detained and questioned as investigators examined whether all mandatory safety protocols had been followed.
The Civil Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and will determine whether criminal charges should be filed against those responsible for organising and conducting the activity.
The tragedy has reignited concerns about safety standards at adventure tourism destinations. Activities such as bungee jumping, rope jumping, zip-lining and skydiving depend on strict safety procedures, repeated equipment inspections and multiple verification checks before participants are allowed to proceed.
Experts note that even a minor lapse in protocol can have fatal consequences, highlighting the importance of rigorous safety measures in high-risk recreational activities.
The investigation is ongoing.