A Texas family and the local youth soccer community are grieving the heartbreaking loss of 6-year-old Raul Chavez, who died in a tragic UTV rollover accident earlier this week.
“He was gone, way before we got to the hospital,” his mother, Ana Juarez, told ABC affiliate WFAA.
According to a news release from the Gainesville Police Department, the incident occurred Sunday, July 13, in the 3100 block of U.S. Highway 82. Officers responded to a report of a “major accident” involving a 4×4 rollover.
Police said four children, ages 6 to 13, were riding in a Polaris side-by-side in a parking lot when the driver lost control. The vehicle rolled over, ejecting all four passengers.
“When officers arrived, CPR had already started on one of the occupants, who was reported to be 6 years of age,” the department stated. “All four children were transported by medical services to the hospital. One child was air lifted to a metroplex hospital, two were treated locally. Despite all efforts, the 6-year-old succumbed to his injuries.”
Family members confirmed Raul was one of the four children aboard the UTV, along with his brothers, ages 9 and 13. They said the vehicle rolled and pinned Raul underneath.
“It turned on one side, and my baby fell to the side,” Juarez told WFAA. “It fell on him.”
Raul’s 9-year-old brother sustained pelvic fractures and internal bruising to his lungs and liver, WFAA reported. He was released from the hospital on Wednesday, July 16.
Raul was a proud member of the Ennis Soccer Association, which honored his memory in a heartfelt Facebook tribute.
“This is a loss none of us could have prepared for. Raul was more than just a player on the field,” the association wrote. “He was a part of our family. A teammate, a brother, a friend. His spirit, kindness, and smile touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
They added, “As a community, we stand together in grief, offering strength, comfort, and unwavering support to the Chavez family during this unimaginable time.”
Raul’s family had recently bought him new soccer gear in preparation for the upcoming season — a season he was eagerly anticipating.
To help cover funeral and medical costs, a GoFundMe has been launched on behalf of Raul’s family.
“There are no words to describe the depth of this tragedy,” the fundraiser’s organizer wrote. “Raul was a bright light — joyful, kind, full of curiosity and love. His goal was to be a soccer goalie and could not wait to make those dreams come true.”
The Ennis Soccer Association also announced a candlelight vigil to honor Raul’s memory, scheduled for Monday, July 21, at Veterans Park.
“It’s going to be very, very emotional,” said Leo Olmos, Raul’s coach, in an interview with WFAA. “I truly am going to miss him.”
The Gainesville Police Department stated that an investigation into the accident is ongoing. PEOPLE reached out to the GoFundMe organizer for additional details on Friday, July 18.
