He was just 13: The Memorial Day parade tragedy forcing us to rethink child safety

Memorial Day is supposed to be a time for reflection, honor, and community, a day to pay tribute to those who gave their lives for the country. But in Green, Ohio, what started as a heartfelt celebration ended in unimaginable heartbreak.


A 13-year-old boy lost his life during the city’s Memorial Day parade on Monday, May 26. According to officials and reports, the teen fell off a trailer that was part of a parade float and was tragically struck by the same vehicle. The incident happened along Massillon Road around 10:30 a.m., just as the parade was underway. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, and though life-saving measures were performed, the boy was pronounced dead shortly after.


The City of Green later confirmed the death in a public release. Out of respect for the family, his name hasn’t been publicly disclosed. What’s clear, though, is that an entire community is grieving a young life taken far too soon.

This wasn’t just a random accident, it was a painful, shocking moment that has left a lasting impact on everyone who witnessed it. Parade-goers were seen comforting one another, some in tears, as emergency crews cleared the scene. The rest of the parade was understandably canceled.

While full details are still under investigation by the Summit County Sheriff's Office, early reports suggest the boy may have been participating in the parade as part of a local group, possibly standing or sitting on the float when the fall happened. Witnesses say there were children riding on the trailer when he fell.

The boy’s family and friends are now left grappling with a tragedy that no one should ever have to face, especially not on a day meant for remembrance and togetherness. The City of Green extended its deepest condolences and asked for the community to respect the family’s privacy as they mourn.

It’s the kind of incident that hits hard because it feels so preventable
And it makes you stop and think: Are we doing enough to keep kids safe during public events like these? Floats, trailers, and parades are fun, but they carry risks, especially when young people are involved.

Memorial Day should never have to be remembered for something like this. It's heartbreaking that a day about honoring heroes also became the day this young boy’s life ended.

As we reflect on this tragedy, maybe we can also think about how we can better protect children and participants at community events moving forward. Sometimes safety measures are the last thing on our minds when we’re caught up in celebration, but they shouldn’t be.

How to keep kids safe at public events (without killing the fun)
Public events like parades, festivals, and fairs can be tons of fun for families, but they also come with risks, especially for kids. A little planning can go a long way in keeping them safe while still letting them enjoy the moment.

First off, always keep a close eye on your child, especially in crowded areas. If they’re on or around moving vehicles (like parade floats), make sure they’re seated securely and supervised by an adult at all times.

Dress them in bright or matching clothes so they’re easy to spot. For younger kids, ID bracelets with your contact info can be a lifesaver if you get separated.

Talk to them beforehand about what to do if they get lost. Pick a meeting point and explain how to find a security officer or event staff.

Lastly, trust your gut. If something doesn’t look safe, whether it’s a float, a ride, or even a crowd, don’t risk it.