An 11-year-old from western New York lost his life in a tragic freak go-kart accident earlier this month.
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On Sept. 6, Parker Mitchell of Rochester, New York, was driving a go-kart alongside his 8-year-old sister. The vehicle flipped, sending the two into a pond. The Genesee County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene around 2:32 p.m., per local outlets, the Democrat & Chronicle, WIVB, and WHAM.
While his sister was able to free herself, Parker was pinned underneath the go-kart. First responders treated Parker's sister at the scene. Meanwhile, he was rushed to Strong Memorial Hospital. The 11-year-old was later pronounced dead.
A verified GoFundMe organized by family friends is full of heartbreaking details of a life full of promise cut short.
"He was vibrant and full of energy, an absolute brute of a kid in the best possible way," the fundraiser says of the straight-A student and avid football player.
"He was incredibly affectionate. [Parker] had the kind of hugs that made you feel like he was always trying to squeeze the life right back into you," the family friend added.
"[Parker] had manners, was inquisitive, and thoughtful. He paid attention and cared," the GoFundMe details. "He didn't walk around acting like he was better than anyone, even though he had something that very few people have."
Meanwhile, Parker's sister is "already learning what it feels like to lose someone she loves," the family friend continued. "And her parents are trying to figure out how to help her through that while trying to survive their own grief."
"He truly excelled at everything he did," his obituary reads. "[Parker] had a good heart, and his kindness left an impression on the people fortunate enough to meet him. He had so many friends and had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome."
Community Mourns the Loss of Parker Mitchell
Parker's football team, the Greece Chargers, also paid tribute to the beloved 11-year-old.
"When one of our Chargers families hurts, we all hurt with them," the team penned on
social media. "We are keeping Parker's entire family in our thoughts and prayers and surrounding them with all the love and support our Chargers community can give.""Once a Charger, always a Charger. Our whole Chargers family is with you," his team added.
Parker's obituary concludes with poignant words about the promising young man. It calls him "a beloved son, family member, friend, teammate, musician, explorer, dog lover, and one-of-a-kind kid who was loved more than words can ever express."
"His life was short, but his impact will last forever."
