Police in Behchokǫ̀ say they are investigating after an ATV collision in the community led to the death of a six-year-old and left two other children needing hospital treatment.
In a news release on Monday, RCMP said officers were called to the scene at about 9pm on Saturday, June 6, where they found the six-year-old had already passed away.
According to police, the ATV was the only vehicle involved. The two other children were taken to hospital by ambulance, police said, adding the eight-year-old has since been medevaced for further treatment. The 11-year-old was later released from hospital.
None of those involved were named by RCMP.
In a message online, the community’s Chief Jimmy Bruneau School said it was “heartbroken” by the sudden loss of one of the school’s students.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the student’s family and friends during this incredibly hard time,” the school stated.
According to the school, additional counsellors began working with students on Monday and a prayer for the student was held on Monday morning.
“We know this news is painful for everyone. We want to make sure all of our students and staff have the help they need,” the school wrote.
“Initial findings indicate none of the youth were wearing helmets at the time of the collision,” RCMP stated in their news release, noting that people “must be at least 16 years of age to operate ATVs in roadway-related situations.”
“The matter remains under investigation at this time in partnership with the Northwest Territories Coroner’s Service,” the news release added. “The RCMP extends its sincere condolences to the families of the involved.”
Chief Bertha Rabesca Zoe, in a statement of her own, wrote: “Words cannot describe how we are feeling, we are in disbelief.”
