An 8-year-old boy died Tuesday morning after being struck by a falling tree at the YMCA's Camp Chickami in Wayland, Massachusetts. The incident occurred at approximately 10:40 a.m., according to the Wayland Police Department and Wayland Fire Department.
The boy was transported by medical helicopter to Massachusetts General Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. An adult who was also hit by the tree was taken to a local hospital for treatment and has since been released.
"I want to offer our sincere thoughts and support to the family and friends who are facing this tragic loss," Wayland Acting Police Chief Mark Hebert said in a statement. "Our Wayland community is grieving today, and thinking of those who lost so much as a result of this tragic accident," added Wayland Fire Chief Neil McPherson.
The West Suburban YMCA, which operates Camp Chickami, stated that the entire YMCA family is grieving. "We are keeping the camper's family foremost in our thoughts at this extraordinarily difficult time," said West Suburban YMCA President and CEO Jack Fucci. "We are making grief counseling and other support resources available to camp staff, campers, and their families."
The camp will remain closed for the rest of the week.