Sky Elements Under the Microscope:
Sky Elements, the drone show provider, has released only a brief statement wishing Alexander a speedy recovery. The company has not yet offered a clear explanation for the malfunction. Rick Boss, the company’s owner, has come under fire on social media, with concerned citizens questioning their safety protocols, and whether insufficiently trained staff, or negligence contributed to the disaster.
The Legal Quagmire: Preserving the “Black Box”
In aviation and drone-related incidents, software data often serves as the equivalent of a “black box,” storing flight paths, error logs, and performance metrics. Legal observers warn that allowing Sky Elements to investigate its own software malfunctions raises red flags.
Many observers believe that while a civil lawsuit for negligence or product liability is almost inevitable, the potential for criminal charges cannot be dismissed. If investigators uncover gross negligence—such as knowingly using defective equipment or ignoring safety protocols—individuals at Sky Elements could face criminal liability. The City of Orlando might also face legal scrutiny over whether officials properly vetted safety measures or properly enforced local drone regulations.
