BRENTWOOD, Tenn. (WTVF) — A 9-year-old boy has died following a sledding-related accident in Brentwood.
The call came in around 2:45 p.m. Tuesday on Seward Road. Brentwood Police said the preliminary investigation reveals that Campbell Martin and three other children were sledding in a tube, that was being pulled by an ATV, when the tube collided with a mailbox. The ATV was being driven by Martin's father according to police.
Campbell Martin was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center by Williamson County EMS. He later died of his injuries at the hospital. The three other children were not injured.
"In the later part of yesterday afternoon there were tremendous number of sledding related trauma events and that is a devastating occurrence to be dealing with," Dr. Levine said.
Dr. Marla Levine at the Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt has some tips to keep kids safe. "Perhaps the most important piece of medical advice I’d like to share is a sled should never be pulled by a motorized vehicle," Levine said.
If possible, she said children should wear helmets and sled feet first. "So clear of any trees, clear of cars, and obviously clear of any water sources," Levine said.
There was also a sledding accident in Franklin Tuesday. A 3-year-old went into the river, and his mom was hurt trying to get him out. "Don’t sled anywhere near water," Bryan Hovde said.
At the Williamson County Emergency Management Agency, Brian Hovde wants to warn people of the dangers. With more winter weather ahead, they want everyone to be safe. "It’s something that’s just very heartbreaking, so we don’t want anyone else to have to experience that."
The principal at Scales Elementary issued a statement on the death of Campbell Martin that said:
“Campbell was loved by our students and staff. He had a sweet smile and a kind and respectful spirit. He loved sports and he played as hard as he worked. He was such a positive light in his classroom every day. Campbell will forever be loved and missed by our Scales family.”
Donate to the Martin family here
His family said in a Facebook message they are completely and utterly devastated. The incident remains under investigation. Brentwood police said the tragedy highlights the dangers of sledding. They released the following safety tips to remember:
- Children should have an adult with them when they go sledding.
- Avoid sledding in areas where there are any obstacles such as fences, trees, poles, etc.
- Always go downhill feet first.
- Have only the recommended number of passengers on a sled.
- Never have a sled pulled by a vehicle.
- Do not sled around lakes, streams, or ponds.
- Wear heavy clothing to protect you from the elements and injuries
