A 14-year-old boy has died and another teenager was seriously injured following a crash involving a farm vehicle in England, authorities confirmed.
Stanley Police said that Aaron Anderson, 14, of Consett, was fatally injured when a John Deere Gator overturned at a farm in Burnopfield at approximately 8:25 p.m. local time on Dec. 21. He sustained life-threatening injuries and was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle for treatment, where he later died on Friday, Dec. 26.
Police said a second boy, 13, was also hospitalized with serious injuries after the incident. He has since been released and is recovering at home.
In a statement shared through police, Anderson’s family described him as a “much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend” who “will be missed by all who knew him.”
His loved ones said he was happiest working on farms and repairing trucks, noting that even at 14 he had a strong work ethic and had already received two apprenticeship offers.
“Although we are saddened about the life he will never have, we are so thankful for the life he has lived and will cherish all the happy memories he left us with,” the family said.
They also expressed gratitude to emergency responders, police officers, medical staff at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, and charities that have supported them during the aftermath of the tragedy.
“Our thoughts and well wishes are also with everyone else affected by this tragic incident. We would now ask to be left in peace to grieve the loss of our son,” the family added.
An investigation into the crash is ongoing. Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.
