A lawsuit has been filed against Ford, a track operator, a nonprofit, and the driver of a prototype Dark Horse Mustang following a severe accident that injured two children during a STEM field trip at a test track in Auburn Hills. The crash occurred in July 2023, when the Mustang lost control and crashed into barriers near spectators, including the children.
Footage of the incident, recorded by an adult, shows the vehicle sliding out of control before hitting the barriers. The audio captured in the video reveals the screams and cries of the children, highlighting the traumatic nature of the accident. Both injured children, aged 8 and 10, sustained serious brain and leg injuries, leaving them with ongoing struggles related to mobility, memory, and cognitive function.
The attorney representing the families claims that the Ford employee driving the Mustang deliberately lost control in an attempt to entertain the children. Additionally, the lawsuit argues that the children were placed dangerously close to the track, alleging negligence on the part of the organizers for not maintaining safer spectator boundaries, especially when the vehicle was being pushed to its performance limits.
Racing and test tracks generally have strict rules about spectator safety and driver conduct, which are intended to prevent accidents like this one. The lawsuit suggests that these protocols were not properly followed, leading to the tragic event. The case may now proceed to court unless the involved parties reach a settlement.
