Girl, 6, Dies After Badminton Racket Malfunction

In June 2024, a family vacation in Limerick, Maine, turned tragic when 6-year-old Lucy Morgan died from a severe head injury. An aluminum shaft from a badminton racket, allegedly defective and improperly secured, became dislodged while her 10-year-old brother was playing. The shaft struck Lucy, piercing her skull and leading to her death on June 5, 2024, after being transported to two hospitals.

The family has since filed a lawsuit against Franklin Sports, the Massachusetts-based maker of the racket. They allege the sports equipment was unreasonably dangerous due to a defective design and manufacturing. Specific claims include inadequate securing of the handle and shaft, insufficient adhesive, and a lack of a secondary safety restraint. The lawsuit also contends the company failed to warn consumers of potential risks.

According to the family's attorney, this is not the first reported incident involving a Franklin Sports racket separating. A prior case in New York reportedly resulted in a child losing an eye. The attorney claims the company was aware of such dangers but did not implement simple, inexpensive safety measures. The lawsuit seeks damages for funeral expenses, emotional distress, and loss of companionship, with Lucy's siblings and parents having witnessed the horrific event.