A five-year-old boy named Sammy tragically passed away on January 17, 2025, following an accident at the Bunbury Museum in Western Australia on January 15. The child was struck by an unused parking meter that had been leaning unsecured against a wall in the museum’s courtyard. The incident occurred during a school holiday activity organized by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA).
Sammy was initially treated at Bunbury Regional Hospital before being airlifted to Perth Children’s Hospital in critical condition. Despite the efforts of medical staff, he succumbed to his injuries two days after the accident. The City of Bunbury, which manages the museum, expressed condolences to Sammy’s family and confirmed its full cooperation with the investigation into the tragedy.
WA Police released a statement on behalf of Sammy’s family, who described him as “cheeky, playful” and someone who “impacted everyone he met.” They expressed gratitude for the support received from the public and praised the “loving and respectful” care provided by hospital staff, first responders, and museum staff. The family also requested privacy, stating they would not make further statements.
The incident has drawn widespread attention, with WA Premier Roger Cook calling it a “dreadful and very sad tragedy.” He emphasized the responsibility of public institutions to ensure safety for visitors, stating, “Any institution that has members of the public coming through their doors has a responsibility and obligation to ensure that it doesn’t represent a risk to [the] public.”
Environment Minister Reece Whitby described the accident as “gut-wrenching” and confirmed that WorkSafe WA is conducting a thorough investigation. He assured the public that the DBCA would cooperate fully and follow all recommendations arising from the inquiry. “We need to get the investigation underway,” Whitby stated, noting the importance of learning from the incident to prevent future tragedies.
Police Minister Paul Papalia also expressed his sorrow, saying, “At the time, I didn’t know the extent of the child’s injuries. I had hoped that he might recover.” He emphasized the need for a full inquiry to understand the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Community members have rallied around the grieving family, raising over $21,000 through a GoFundMe campaign to assist with financial burdens during this difficult time. The campaign described the tragedy as deeply affecting “family, friends, hospital staff, and the wider community” and called for collective support.
This incident has sparked calls for stricter safety measures in public spaces. Authorities and museum management are expected to implement changes based on the investigation’s findings to ensure that no family endures a similar heartbreak in the future. The museum is expected to remain closed until January 28.