Parents Seek ₹1.08 Crore From Park Over Daughter’s Death; Court Dismisses Plea Over No Ticket

Initially, her parents approached the tourist site, which offered to compensate them 40,000 yuan (₹4.6 lakh). However, the couple later took the tourism company to court, demanding 950,000 yuan (₹1.08 crore) in compensation, alleging that the site had failed to ensure visitor safety.

In the final ruling issued in February, the Jiangxi court determined that the tourism company was not responsible for Gao’s death. A crucial factor in the court’s decision was that Gao had not purchased a ticket. As per the ticketing system, visitors were required to submit identification details when booking. Since she did not buy an entry pass, the court ruled that no service contract existed between her and the scenic zone. Consequently, the park was not legally obligated to ensure her safety.

The court observed that the tourist site had implemented necessary safety measures, including warning signs at entrances and near fences. It also highlighted that the spot where Gao fell was outside the designated tour route. The ruling stressed that, as an adult capable of making independent choices, Gao was responsible for assessing potential risks.

Her parents revealed that they had lost contact with her for a week after she left for Lushan Mountain, located several hundred kilometers away. Concerned about her safety, they reported her missing to the police. Although Gao initially claimed she was traveling with friends, they later discovered she had gone alone.

The court also stated that their daughter had been diagnosed with depression and had previously attempted to end her life. Before her trip, she had argued with them over her desire to leave home after completing university.

Following an investigation, police ruled out foul play and concluded that Gao had fallen to her death.