NANAIMO – A family in this Vancouver Island community is grieving the death of an eight-year-old boy.
He was coming out from a driveway on his bike accompanied by his sibling when he was struck by a pickup truck.
“The incident incurred at approximately 11:40 AM on Sunday January 6, 2019 in the 1000 block of Nelson St, in central Nanaimo,” said RCMP spokesman Const. Gary O’Brien.
“Police, Fire and EHS attended to the scene. Emergency first aid was rendered almost immediately by several Good Samaritan’s and attending first responders.
“The injured youth was transported to local hospital where he received emergency care by medical staff, however due to his life threatening injuries he was eventually pronounced deceased.”
O’Brien said Investigators obtained multiple statements and spoke with the driver of the truck who remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
“Officers were able to determine the youth, who was wearing a bike helmet, was with another sibling when he rode out of a driveway and collided with the truck, described as a F350 pick up. Alcohol, speed and drugs are not believed to be contributing factors.”
The vehicle has been seized by investigators and will undergo a mechanical inspection.
Nanaimo RCMP Victim Services attended to the scene to assist the family and those involved.
As the youth was a student of School District 68, school district officials were notified. RCMP School Liaison Officers along with grief counsellors will be in place to assist with any students and staff impacted by the incident.
“This is just a tragic occurrence. Our sincere thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the young boy and everyone involved. We would also like to acknowledge several bystanders who without hesitation initiated emergency first aid to the youth, said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.”
“These bystanders, who rendered first aid, departed before investigators could speak with them. The investigators would like to speak with those people. If you have any information on this incident or the name of the Good Samaritan’s, please contact the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345.”
