Judge Approved Settlement for Los Angeles Zoo Injury
A Pasadena boy received a $20,000 settlement following an injury on the Los Angeles Zoo carousel.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Special Education
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Jerrold Abeles approved a $20,000 settlement regarding a 12-year-old boy injured on the Los Angeles Zoo carousel. The boy suffered three leg breaks during the 2023 incident, which led to a lawsuit against the city.
Why it matters
The settlement resolves a legal dispute after the boy's foot was caught in the carousel base as the ride stopped unexpectedly. The city maintains its denial of liability despite the finalized payment.
The settlement of $20,000 covers a 12-year-old child who sustained three leg breaks in the accident. After accounting for all legal fees and associated costs, the boy will receive just under $11,000 in net proceeds.
The players
Jerrold Abeles
He is a Los Angeles Superior Court Judge who issued the ruling on the settlement.
City Attorney's Office
This office represents the interests of the City of Los Angeles in legal matters and litigation.
The details
The incident occurred when the carousel stopped abruptly and the child's foot was trapped as he attempted to step off the ride. While the lawsuit alleged the city permitted a hazardous condition, the City Attorney's Office denied these claims and cited immunity.
Timeline
October 21, 2023: The child was injured on the zoo carousel.
February 2024: A lawsuit was filed against the City of Los Angeles.
September 16, 2026: Judge Jerrold Abeles approved the settlement agreement.
Culture Shift
This case highlights the ongoing tension between municipal liability protections and public safety expectations in shared recreational spaces. It reflects a broader societal shift toward formal legal challenges when children are injured at local government-operated facilities.
This settlement serves as a reminder to parents about the potential risks inherent in large amusement attractions for younger children. Families should remain vigilant of how their children interact with moving equipment at local parks and zoos.
The takeaway
Parents should always supervise children closely around heavy moving machinery in public spaces to prevent avoidable accidents. Legal settlements may provide financial support for recovery, but they often leave the underlying safety concerns of public facilities unresolved.
Further reading
For more context on local educational and youth-related litigation, see Special Education.
Source note: This article includes information reported by My News LA.
