Investigation into death of three-year-old ongoing
The Woodstock Police Force (WPF) is asking anyone with photos or videos of the accident that claimed the life of a three-year-old to come forward.
The toddler died when he was struck by the racing starting gate attached to the pacing truck on Saturday, June 14.
At a news conference on Monday, June 16, WPF Deputy Chief Simon Watts said he hopes members of the public will share anything they’ve recorded or witnessed with his officers as they continue their investigation. People with information can call (506) 325-4601.
When questioned why the races continued after the accident, Watts could not say why, but bystanders who spoke to the River Valley Sun believed the boy was still breathing when he was taken by ambulance.
“They left with lights and sirens, so that usually indicates there is life on board,” said an off-duty first responder who did not want to be named.
The Connell Park Raceway is owned by the Town of Woodstock but operated through the Woodstock Driving Club. Horse Racing New Brunswick organizes the harness races.
During Monday’s news conference, Deputy Chief Watts said the community is mourning.
“Obviously, as a community member myself, and same with officers, it’s a small town, and I can certainly say that there are a lot of, quite rightly, upset members of the public,” he said. ” It’s a death of a child; it’s very traumatic and very saddening.”
Watts previously expressed his appreciation for those who immediately came to the aid of the boy and his family after the accident.
In a media release on Monday, June 16, the Town of Woodstock expressed its condolences.
“The Town of Woodstock is deeply saddened by the tragic accident that occurred at Connell Park Raceway during the opening day of the harness racing season,” reads the release. “If you need support now, anyone can call Community Addictions and Mental Health and schedule a session with a clinician or the New Brunswick helpline for crisis services at 1-866-355-5550.”
For anyone in mental distress, you can access help through local mental health offices:
Woodstock Office – 1-506-325-4419
Perth-Andover Office – 1-506-273-4701
Child and Youth Office – 1-506-325-4475
Social media posts by the Woodstock Driving Club and others in the harness racing community have identified the toddler as Gunnar Dickison.
Members of the driving club are collecting donations in support of the family to help with ongoing expenses. Those wishing to donate can send e-transfers to woodstockdrivingclub@gmail.com. They ask that those making donations include the word ‘Gunnar’ in the subject line.
(with files from Theresa Blackburn)
