No corporate manslaughter charges after Drayton Manor death

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will now take over the investigation into the death of an 11-year-old girl at Drayton Manor theme park after the Crown Prosecution Service and Staffordshire Police decided the threshold for gross negligence or corporate manslaughter had not been met.

The Splash Canyon ride at Drayton Manor

Evha Jannath died after falling from the park’s Splash Canyon water ride in May 2017.

A forensic pathologist concluded Evha died as a result of drowning. A file has been prepared for the coroner and an inquest will take place later this year.

Det Insp John Quilty from Staffordshire Police said: “The investigation into the tragic death of Evha has been extremely complex and we have worked closely throughout with the park, HSE and CPS.

“Evha’s family have been made aware of the findings and our thoughts remain with her family and friends.”

Staffordshire Police’s file has now been passed to the HSE, which will consider if any other offences are applicable.

A HSE spokesperson said: “HSE has supported Staffordshire Police since this incident took place and has supported the inquiry throughout.

“This remains a criminal investigation and we will be considering whether there were any breaches of health and safety law relevant to the circumstances of this tragic event.”