The family of a five-year-old boy who was tragically killed when a parking meter fell on him have paid tribute to his 'cheeky, playful character'.
Sammy was seriously injured when the disused Bunbury Museum parking meter collapsed on him in south-west Perth on the morning of January 15.
He died last Friday at Perth Children's Hospital.
His devastated parents said their son brought joy to everyone's lives.
“Sammy had an impact on everyone he met. He was wise beyond his years and brought so much joy with his cheeky, playful nature,” they said in a statement.
'We are so grateful for the support we have received from family, friends and the general public.
“We would also like to acknowledge the support of the museum staff, first responders and the care given to Sammy at BRH and PCH, which was so loving and respectful.”
After news broke of Sammy's death on Tuesday, WA Prime Minister Roger Cook said the boy's death was a “terrible and very sad tragedy”.
'Cheeky and playful' five-year-old Sammy was killed after a disused parking meter fell on him at a museum
The Bunbury Museum and Heritage Center remains closed as the accident is investigated
“A museum exhibit or an artefact that was basically just sitting there was taken down on top of him because it was just leaning against a wall,” he told reporters, according to the ABC.
'Any institution where members of the public come through their doors has a responsibility and obligation to ensure that this does not pose a risk to [the] audience.
“Now I know this is a tragic accident, I know this is something that has obviously hurt and of course broken the hearts of many, but we just have to get to the bottom of it and see how the investigation goes. out and learn from that research.'
The Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions was hosting a school holiday activity at the museum when tragedy struck.
The City of Bunbury, responsible for running the museum, has reportedly informed staff that they are liaising with insurers and will seek legal advice if necessary.
The Bunbury Museum and Heritage Center reopened on Tuesday.
Outside the museum during the week we saw locals and city officials laying flowers for little Sammy.
