Bow Island boy killed when struck by out-of-control payloader
By Medicine Hat News on August 16, 2018.
Medicine Hat News An 11-year-old Bow Island boy was killed late Tuesday afternoon in an industrial accident on a ranch near the town west of Medicine Hat. A 47-year-old man from Bow Island was operating a payloader when the brakes and steering failed, according to information from the Bow Island RCMP and The Canadian Press. Police said the machine took a sharp turn and struck two youths, the 11-year-old and a 17-year-old male. The older boy was not injured. Mounties and Alberta Occupational Health and Safety officers are investigating. The boy who died was a Grade 6 Bow Island student. The Town of Bow Island’s Facebook page said “these sudden and unexpected tragedies can greatly impact a community and our young people as they mourn the loss of a friend.” Prairie Rose School Division, in conjunction with the Town of Bow Island, has set up family counselling supports today from 1-4 p.m. at the community room in the town office. A family support worker will be on hand to assist those in need of it. A statement from Mayor Gordon Reynolds, council and staff said, “The Town of Bow Island is in shock and grief today at the loss of a young member of our community. We offer our condolences and prayers to the families.” 10-9
