Local News
7-year-old boy undergoing emergency heart surgery after being injured by falling drones during a Christmas holiday show in Orlando
Orlando, FL – A festive Christmas drone show in Orlando turned into a chaotic scene Saturday evening when drones collided mid-air and plummeted into the crowd below at high speed, resulting in several reported injuries, including a young boy who is now in critical condition.
The incident occurred during the 6:30 p.m. performance at Lake Eola Park, where hundreds of drones from Sky Elements Drones, in partnership with the City of Orlando, were orchestrating an elaborate display of red and green lights.
The drones were programmed to form intricate holiday-themed patterns, enchanting the audience before the mishap.
Eyewitness videos captured the moment of the collision, as gasps of surprise and cries from frightened children echoed throughout the crowd.
In one video, a young child’s voice can be heard asking, “What’s happening?” as the malfunctioning drones plummeted toward the ground.
The Orlando Fire Department reported that one person sustained minor injuries during the incident.
However, two mothers, Jessica Lumedge and Adriana Edgerton, claimed that their young son was struck in the face by a falling drone and is now “fighting for his life” in the emergency room.
The boy’s mothers shared emotional updates on social media, accompanied by photos of their son in a hospital bed with visible injuries. Jessica Lumedge wrote, “Pray for my son, we went to the drone show at Lake Eola, and one of the drones hit him in the face. I’ve never been so scared.”
Adriana Edgerton echoed the sentiment, adding, “My baby is going into emergency heart surgery after just trying to watch a drone show. I am beyond words, beyond terrified. [The City of Orlando] and Sky Elements Drones really have some explaining to do. They will be held accountable for what was done to my son. I pray he makes it out of this!”
Despite the accident, the show continued for the remainder of the 6:30 p.m. performance. However, the subsequent 8 p.m. show was canceled, the City of Orlando announced on X (formerly Twitter).
Andrea Otero, the city’s public information manager, told People magazine, “We are in contact with the vendor to determine what occurred with the operation. The FAA is handling the investigation.”
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is now working with local officials and the drone operator, Sky Elements Drones, to uncover the cause of the mid-air collision.
This incident has raised concerns over safety protocols for public drone displays and left the Orlando community shaken. The thoughts of many remain with the injured boy and his family as they await updates on his condition.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.