PORTLAND, Ore. – A federal jury has ordered Topgolf to pay more than $15 million in damages after finding the company negligent in connection with the severe injury of a 9-year-old boy at its Hillsboro facility.
The Incident
The case stemmed from a birthday party at the Hillsboro Topgolf, where the child was struck in the head by a golf club swung by another young player. The impact caused significant injury, leading to lasting medical complications.
Attorneys for the family argued that Topgolf failed to implement sufficient safety measures to protect children during events at its venue, particularly given the popularity of hosting youth parties at the entertainment complex.
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The Trial
The case went to trial in federal court in Portland, lasting about two weeks. Jurors heard testimony from medical experts, eyewitnesses, and company representatives.
The family’s legal team maintained that Topgolf did not do enough to safeguard young guests in an environment where clubs are being swung at close quarters. They highlighted that children are especially vulnerable in such spaces and that clearer supervision guidelines or barriers could have prevented the accident.
Topgolf’s attorneys countered that the incident was an unforeseeable accident, not the result of corporate negligence.
Jury’s Verdict
On Thursday, after nearly two days of deliberations, the eight-member jury sided with the boy’s family. The panel found Topgolf liable and awarded nearly $16 million in damages to cover medical costs, pain and suffering, and long-term impacts of the injury.
The verdict sends a strong message about corporate responsibility in recreational spaces, particularly those catering to families with children.
What’s Next
It is not yet clear whether Topgolf plans to appeal the verdict. As of Thursday evening, the company had not issued a public statement.
For the boy’s family, the decision represents accountability after years of medical challenges and uncertainty. Their attorneys said the award will help cover ongoing care and support the child’s future needs.
The case is also likely to spark broader discussions about safety protocols at entertainment venues across the country. With Topgolf’s rapid expansion and growing popularity as a family destination, the ruling may influence how similar businesses manage child-focused events in the future.
