5th grade student killed in ATV accident, sheriff says

SULPHUR, La. (KPLC/Gray News) - An 11-year-old boy is dead after an accident involving a side-by-side ATV in Sulphur, Louisiana on Monday.

Two children were riding a Polaris RZR when it tipped over, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Kayla Vincent said.

The accident happened Oct. 14 in the 900 block of Armentor Road at around 11 a.m.

The 11-year-old passenger was partially thrown from the side-by-side in the accident.

Deputies tried performing life-saving measures on the child before he was taken to an area hospital and pronounced dead.

“Two young kids were playing, driving an ATV, and the ATV tipped over. One kid was ejected, and the other one was pinned under the ATV. Our deputies tried to perform life-saving measures,” Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Stitch Guillory said.

The child’s family identified the victim as Reid Michael Briggs, a Vincent Settlement Elementary fifth grader who played baseball for Tornado Athletics. Reid had two brothers.

Vincent Settlement Elementary School shared a statement online, which said, in part, “He always had a smile on his face, bringing joy and kindness to everyone who knew him. Our hearts are especially with his mom, a dedicated member of our staff, and her family during this incredibly difficult time.”

A family member’s fundraiser for Reid’s parents surpassed its $30,000 goal by Tuesday afternoon.

The child driving the side-by-side was not hurt in the accident, according to Vincent. She said the investigation is ongoing, but the death appears to be accidental and foul play is not suspected.

“Unfortunately, in these ATVs, accidents can happen at any time, even if the parent is on there supervising. Sometimes unfortunate accidents do happen and this is one of those cases, and our hearts do go out to the family,” Guillory added.

Copyright 2024 KPLC via Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved.