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A tragic accident claims the life of a young boy near Bow Island

Aug 15, 2018 | 12:11 PM

BOW ISLAND, AB – A tragic accident has claimed the life of a young boy near the town of Bow Island.

RCMP say the incident happened just after 5:00 P.M. Tuesday night, northwest of the town.

Mounties said a man was operating a payloader on a farm when a mechanical issue occurred. Corporal Neil Bailey said the brakes failed on the machine, along with the steering, and it took a sharp turn striking two youths.

An 11 year old was rushed to hospital, but was pronounced dead. A 17 year old boy was not seriously injured in the accident.

Occupational Health and Safety is investigating.

A statement posted on the Town of Bow Island’s Facebook page offers condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.

“The Town of Bow Island is in shock and grief today at loss of a young member of our community. We offer our condolences and prayers to the families,” read the statement from Mayor Gordon Reynolds, Council & Staff.

“These sudden and unexpected tragedies can greatly impact a community and our young people as they mourn the loss of a friend,” read another statement from the Town.

Prairie Rose School Division and the Town of Bow Island are making family counselling supports available today (Wednesday, August 15) from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. at the Community Room of the Town Office.

The post on social media indicated additional counselling days will be added if required.