26-05-2025
13-year-old boy dies after falling off trailer during Green Memorial Day parade
A 13-year-old boy was critically injured and later died May 26 after falling off a parade trailer during the Green Memorial Day parade, the Summit County Sheriff's Office and City of Green confirmed in a release.
The incident occurred at 11:23 a.m. when the boy fell off the front of a trailer that was being used as part of a parade float; it was being pulled by a pickup truck. He suffered severe injuries when he was struck by the dual tires of the trailer, the sheriff's office said.
The Green Fire Department, who was already on site for the parade, immediately responded to the incident and transported the boy to Akron Children's Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
He was a seventh grader in North Canton City Schools.
The Summit County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident with the Summit Metro Crash team.
"The loss of a young life is deeply devastating, and our thoughts and prayers are with the student's family, friends, classmates and teachers during this unimaginable time," incoming North Canton Superintendent Tim Walker said in a message to school parents.
It was the second unexpected death for North Canton Schools within 24 hours. Walker's message noted that transportation supervisor Scott Smith who had been "a valued member of our team for the past 18 months and was a dedicated father to two students in our district" also passed away. His message did not say how Smith died.
"His professionalism and care for others will be missed," Walker said.
He said crisis response teams have been activated and the district will have counseling services and resources available for students and staff.
This story has been updated.
Patrick Williams covers growth and development for the Akron Beacon Journal. He can be reached by email at pwilliams@ or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @pwilliamsOH. Sign up for the Beacon Journal's business and consumer newsletter, "What's the deal?"
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: 13-year-old dies after falling trailer in Green Memorial Day parade
