Shylah Rodden: Major update in investigation after woman, 26, was nearly killed after walking into the path of a speeding rollercoaster
An investigation into a tragic incident in which a young woman suffered horrific injuries at the Melbourne Royal Show is moving closer to a resolution.
Shylah Rodden was placed in a medically induced coma for weeks after she was struck by the Rebel Coaster ride on September 24, 2022, and suffered a brain injury.
The then 26-year-old tried to get her phone back after it fell on the tracks in an incident that was accidentally caught on video by an onlooker.
The evidence in the case has now been finalized by WorkSafe Victoria and handed over to lawyers, 7News reported on Friday.
The lawyers will use that evidence to decide whether action should be taken against the show’s operators and organizers.
Shylah Rodden (pictured) was seriously injured in the tragic accident in September 2022
The major update comes three months after the two-year deadline for taking action.
The Rebel Coaster returned to the Melbourne Royal Show in September last year despite the ongoing investigation.
Ms Rodden’s family released a statement around the same time saying internet trolls were impacting Shylah’s recovery with their continued abuse.
Kylie Rodden said their focus was on supporting her daughter and helping her move on with her life.
“We are so grateful to see her making progress after the horrific injuries she suffered,” she said in September 2023.
“She has defied all odds.”
The family previously said they were reluctant to speak out because of the “relentless abuse and criticism” of Shylah.
“What happened was a tragic accident that we had to deal with as a family. Hearing and reading the negative comments in the media and on social media has been painful for Shylah and our family,” the statement said.
“This kind of negativity has a real impact on the progress that has been made. We have done our best to protect Shylah from these comments, as much of it has been misleading and in many cases cruel.
“Unfortunately, Shylah has seen these comments and they are really affecting her.”
Gruesome footage shows Shylah Rodden (pictured in black in the center of the photo) moments before he was hit by the Rebel Coaster at the Melbourne Royal show
Ms Rodden said she hoped her statement would help people understand how hurtful some of the comments were.
“Our desire is to continue moving forward and allow Shylah to continue her recovery and focus on the incredible progress she is making,” she said.
The Rodden family also said they were keen to get an outcome from the WorkSafe investigation.
