The family of a five-year-old boy who tragically died when a parking meter fell on him have paid tribute to his “cheeky and playful nature”.
Sammy was seriously injured when the Bunbury Museum’s disused parking meter collapsed on him in south-west Perth on the morning of January 15.
He died last Friday at Perth Children’s Hospital.
His devastated parents said their son brought joy to everyone’s lives.
‘Sammy impacted everyone he met. “He was wise beyond his years and brought much joy with his cheeky and playful nature,” they said in a statement.
‘We are very grateful for the support we have received from family, friends and the general public.
“We would also like to acknowledge the support of the museum staff, first responders, and the care provided to Sammy at BRH and PCH, which was very loving and respectful.”
After news of Sammy’s death broke on Tuesday, WA Premier Roger Cook said the boy’s passing was a “terrible and very sad tragedy”.
Five-year-old ‘cheeky and playful’ Sammy died after a disused parking meter at a museum fell on him

Bunbury Museum and Heritage Center remains closed amid investigations into the crash.
“A museum piece or an object that was actually there was knocked down on top of him because he was just leaning against a wall,” he told reporters, according to the alphabet.
‘Any institution that has the public entering through its doors has the responsibility and obligation to ensure that it does not represent a risk to (the) public.
“I now know that this is a tragic accident, I know that it is something that has obviously distressed and, of course, broken the hearts of many, but we just have to continue to get to the bottom of it, see how the investigation progresses. Go out and learn of that investigation.’
Western Australia’s Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions was hosting a school holiday activity at the museum when the tragedy occurred.
The City of Bunbury, responsible for the management of the museum, reportedly informed staff that they were in contact with insurers and would seek legal advice as necessary.
Bunbury Museum and Heritage Center reopened its doors on Tuesday.
Outside the museum, locals and city officials were seen laying flowers for little Sammy throughout the week.