A 19-year-old named Ryan Satterthwaite tragically passed away following a severe head injury sustained during a tackle game with friends in Palmerston North. Satterthwaite, who was employed at Mainfreight Transport, was playing a popular “run-it-straight-style” game, which involves participants engaging in full-contact collisions without any protective gear, when the incident occurred on Sunday. His friends transported him to the hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries on Monday night.
Inspector Ross Grantham from the Manawatū Area expressed his condolences, describing the incident as an “absolute tragedy.” He pointed out the serious safety risks associated with such games, which are often inspired by social media trends. While the game was not a formally organised event, Grantham highlighted the need for caution, urging anyone considering similar activities to think carefully about the potential dangers and injury risks involved.
Though this was not treated as a criminal matter, police will continue to investigate the circumstances on behalf of the Coroner. Friends of Satterthwaite have expressed their grief online, with poignant tributes dedicated to him. One message read, “fly high in the high heaven my beautiful brother,” reflecting the immense loss felt among his circle.
The game itself is structured roughly like a competition, drawing elements from sports such as rugby and American football. Players, serving as a ball runner and tackler, sprint towards each other on a designated field with the aim of overpowering one another.
The tragic outcome has sparked conversations about safety in competitive play among friends, highlighting the importance of understanding the risks associated with such activities.