**Twins Sue Universal Orlando Over Injuries from Harry Potter Ride**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Epic-Universe-Harry-Potter-and-the-Battle-at-the-Ministry-022426-34329edb48284677808ffabaa29c866d.jpg)
Twin brothers Derrick and Erick Burrough have initiated legal action against Universal Orlando Resort, claiming they sustained severe neck and back injuries during a visit to the newly opened Harry Potter ride, “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry.” The brothers are seeking over £50,000 in damages, asserting that they experienced an unsafe and erratic ride experience which led to their injuries.
According to legal documents acquired by various media outlets, including PEOPLE, the brothers, both aged 45, filed individual lawsuits following an unfortunate incident on Christmas Day. They allege that while enjoying the ride at the Epic Universe theme park, they encountered a malfunction that caused the ride to abruptly halt, resulting in them being “thrusted erratically” in their seats.
The Harry Potter attraction in question is designed as an elevator simulation featuring a 16-passenger vehicle. It takes riders on a dynamic journey through the Ministry of Magic, moving in multiple directions. The Burrough brothers contend that the sudden stoppage of the ride led to significant physical harm, affecting their overall quality of life.
In their lawsuits, the twins have claimed that the injuries sustained have led to a considerable reduction in their ability to lead normal lives. The brothers are seeking financial compensation for various factors including medical expenses related to hospitalisation and ongoing treatment, loss of earnings, and other associated costs. Their attorney, John Morgan, elaborated on their situation, emphasising that the injuries have had a profound impact on the brothers’ day-to-day existence.
The legal action further details instances of “bodily and terminal injury,” asserting pain and suffering that encompasses both physical and mental distress, as well as long-term disabilities. The brothers assert that the effects of their injuries are not only immediate but are also expected to persist in the future.
Morgan stated in comments to the Orlando Sentinel that the impetus behind the lawsuits was to “hold Universal accountable for a safety incident we allege was entirely preventable.” He reiterated the essential responsibility of amusement parks to ensure the safety of their patrons, suggesting that Universal failed in this regard by operating a ride that had reportedly been plagued by technical issues, including malfunctions and abrupt stops, since it commenced operations.
The Burroughs’ claims add to a growing list of lawsuits against Universal Studios which have emerged in connection to injuries sustained on their amusement rides. Notably, in February 2025, a 74-year-old woman named Pamela Morrison was awarded $7.25 million after suffering a spine injury while on the same Harry Potter ride in September 2022.
Other lawsuits include claims from Debra Biane, Gerald Scott Biane, Josh Taylorson, and Sami-Joh Goldberg, who alleged they were left stranded on the ride for over an hour in April 2022, leading to their own reported injuries. These lawsuits highlight ongoing concerns regarding safety measures and ride maintenance at the popular tourist destination.
As the Burrough brothers pursue their legal claims, a spokesperson from Universal Studios has yet to provide a comprehensive response regarding the lawsuits or the specific malfunction in question. The current trajectory of these legal matters raises questions about the adequacy of safety protocols at amusement parks and the responsibilities of operators to their guests.
The Burroughs’ case serves as a reminder of potential risks associated with amusement attractions and underscores the importance of rigorous safety standards within the theme park industry. Whether this legal battle will lead to changes in operations or increased scrutiny of ride safety remains to be seen.