Watch CBS News

Car 'Surfing' Kills Kentucky Teen

A Western Kentucky University student died from injuries he suffered while "car surfing" on a moving vehicle.

Benjamin Watson, 19, of Louisville, fell off a car and hit his head Saturday night, said Jack Arnold, a Jefferson County deputy coroner. He died Sunday at University Hospital, Arnold said.

It was the second reported death in a week related to car surfing, a stunt where a person attempts to ride on top of a moving vehicle. In Sheboygan, Wis., 19-year-old David Weyrens was killed July 5 when he fell from the top of a Land Rover. One of Weyrens' friends was charged with reckless homicide.

Watson's father, Jim, said his son was with friends Saturday night.

"It was definitely an accident, and we don't hold anyone responsible for him getting killed," the elder Watson said.

Louisville Metro Police spokesman Dwight Mitchell said no charges have been filed, but the case will be sent to the office of the Jefferson County commonwealth's attorney.

"He was a great kid," the father said. "He was starting to mature and say, 'I can use what I've been given to do some good.'"

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.