An 11-year-old boy died after a go-kart he was driving flipped into an upstate New York pond, pinning him underwater. Parker Mitchell was operating a go-kart with his 8-year-old sister, Teagan, in Darien, New York, on Sept. 6 when the vehicle rolled into a nearby pond about 2:30 p.m.
The go-kart landed on top of Parker, trapping him beneath the water. First responders were able to pull the boy from the pond and transport him to Strong Memorial Hospital, where he died. He had been scheduled to start middle school just days after the incident.
Parker's sister, Teagan, managed to escape the wreck and was treated at the scene before returning to her family. The accident occurred just days before the boy was to begin middle school.
According to his obituary, Parker, who was from Greece, New York, was a young athlete who participated in youth football and baseball. His family remembered him as having a "curious spirit and a wonderful sense of adventure," and he enjoyed spending time with friends and family. The obituary stated, "He truly excelled at everything he did. He had a good heart, and his kindness left an impression on the people fortunate enough to meet him."
He was also described as a Buffalo Bills fan who enjoyed playing video games and spending time outdoors. His family noted, "His life was short, but his impact will last forever."
Friends of the family have initiated an online fundraiser to assist them.