Boy struck by racing gate on Saturday
A three-year-old boy died after being struck by the starting racing gate attached to the pacing truck during harness races at Connell Park Raceway in Woodstock on Saturday, June 14.
The Woodstock Police Force received a call for a medical emergency at the raceway at 1:20 p.m. Deputy Chief Simon Watts said his department is investigating.
“At the moment, this looks like a tragic accident, but we are in the early stages of our investigation and continue to look into the incident. There will likely be an autopsy,” he said.
Deputy Chief Watts added that the people who came to the little boy’s aid need to be acknowledged.
“Bystanders immediately tried to help him. People stepped up to assist, including some first responders who were in the stands. They need to be commended for their actions,” he said.
Connell Park Raceway will remain closed until the investigation is complete.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events of today,” said Horse Racing New Brunswick President Dr. Mitchell Downey when reached by the River Valley Sun on Saturday.
“We want to extend our deepest sympathies to the family. This impacts everyone – the family, participants, and bystanders. We ask that everyone keep this family in their thoughts and prayers,” he added.
Dr. Downey said Horse Racing New Brunswick is cooperating with police, the coroner’s office, and their governing body, the Atlantic Provinces Racing Commission, which are all investigating.
This type of accident is rare. Dr. Downey believes this is only the third time in North America someone has died from being struck by the starting gate.
“We are still in shock. The little boy was the nephew of one of our members. It’s so sad,” he said.
