The family of a 6-year-old girl who died after a tragic badminton accident has filed a wrongful death and product liability lawsuit against sporting goods manufacturer Franklin Sports.
The lawsuit concerns the death of Lucy Morgan, who suffered catastrophic injuries during a family vacation in Limerick, Maine, in June 2024. Her family alleges that a defective badminton racket came apart during normal use, causing a metal section to strike the child.
According to the legal complaint, the family is seeking damages and accountability over allegations that the sports equipment was dangerously designed and lacked adequate safety measures.
Badminton Racket Allegedly Came Apart During Play
The incident occurred while the Morgan family was staying at a rental cottage in Maine.
According to the lawsuit, Lucy’s older brother was using a badminton racket when its head and metal shaft reportedly separated from the handle. The detached metal portion allegedly struck Lucy, who was nearby, causing a severe head injury.
Lucy was rushed for emergency medical treatment and later transported to Maine Medical Center. Despite medical efforts, she died from her injuries on June 5, 2024.
The lawsuit states that several of Lucy’s siblings witnessed the devastating incident.
Family Alleges Defective Design and Lack of Safety Measures
The wrongful death lawsuit was filed against Franklin Sports and alleges that the badminton racket was defective and unreasonably dangerous.
According to the family’s claims, the handle and metal portion of the racket were not adequately secured. The complaint also alleges that the adhesive used to connect the components was defective or insufficient.
The family further claims that the racket lacked an additional safety feature that could have prevented the metal section from becoming a dangerous projectile if the connection failed.
The lawsuit also alleges that consumers were not adequately warned about the potential risk of the racket separating during ordinary use.
The family is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, including compensation related to emotional distress, pain and suffering, and funeral expenses. The legal claims have yet to be resolved in court.
Family Seeks Accountability Following Tragic Loss
The Morgan family says the lawsuit is intended not only to seek justice for Lucy but also to raise concerns about product safety and help prevent similar tragedies.
Lucy was vacationing with her parents and siblings when the accident occurred. Her father had previously described the incident as a devastating and unexpected tragedy.
Franklin Sports has expressed sympathy for the family in reporting on the case but, because litigation is ongoing, the company has limited its comments regarding the specific allegations. The claims in the lawsuit remain allegations that will be addressed through the legal process.
