NORTHVILLE, Mich. – After a 12-year-old boy died when a 20-foot tall dead tree fell on him on Thursday, the school he attended sent a letter out to families regarding the tragedy.
Our Lady of Victory Schools sent a letter out to families and staff addressing the 12-year-old’s death on Sept. 26.
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It appeared his class was at the Howell Nature Center for an overnight field trip. In the letter, the school said it canceled the rest of the field trip so students could return home to their families.
“As this incident occurred in front of other students, the decision was made to cancel the rest of the field trip so students could return home to their families. All parents of students on the trip have been contacted. We have been working with the Archdiocese of Detroit Catholic Schools Department to coordinate counseling services for any of our students who may be impacted by this news, particularly those in the sixth grade.
Please know we will pass along any updates the family is comfortable sharing. Beyond that, we ask you to join our school in respecting their need for privacy and sensitivity.”
Our Lady of Victory Schools
The school also canceled classes for Friday, Sept. 27. However, the building remained open to anyone who needed counseling.
The incident happened at around 3:30 p.m. on Thursday at the nature center. According to the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, an instructor was speaking with the children when a tree broke and landed on the boy. The 12-year-old boy was transported on the ground to the Parker Middle School, where a survival flight helicopter flew him to Motts Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor—he later died from his injuries.
The Howell Nature Center closed on Sept. 27 and released a statement to their Facebook page expressing their sorrow.
“Our hearts break and we are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred here at Howell Nature Center. Our thoughts and prayers are with the child, their family, fellow students, teachers, and staff during this difficult time. The park and clinic will be closed tomorrow September 27, 2024 so staff can come together and process today’s events.”
Howell Nature Center
