Boy, 6, Killed in Freak Beach Accident in Washington

A family day at a Washington beach turned into an unimaginable tragedy after a 6-year-old boy was killed in a freak driftwood accident.

Killian Gonzales died Sunday, July 12, several days after he was critically injured while playing at Little Squalicum Beach in Bellingham, Washington, his family told KING 5.

The devastating accident happened on July 8, when Killian was exploring near a driftwood fort with his sister and babysitter. His mother, Sonja McCartney, said a large log suddenly gave way and began to collapse.

Killian tried to run when he saw the heavy piece of timber falling, but it struck him in the back of the head and pinned him underneath.

Emergency crews rushed to the shoreline and began lifesaving efforts before Killian’s parents arrived. He was later flown to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where doctors fought to save him in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

His family said the impact caused catastrophic injuries, including multiple skull fractures and severe trauma to the back of his brain. Doctors monitored him closely for several days as they waited for the swelling to go down enough to better understand the full extent of the damage.

McCartney told FOX 13 the ordeal was a parent’s worst nightmare.

“It’s really hard to close your eyes and not hope that this is the nightmare that you’re waking up from,” she said.

On Sunday afternoon, Killian’s family confirmed the heartbreaking news that he had died from his injuries.

In the days since the accident, friends, loved ones and members of the community have rallied around the grieving family. A GoFundMe was created to help cover medical, food and gas expenses as Killian’s parents faced the unthinkable.

As of Monday morning, the fundraiser had raised more than $42,000.

“We are trying to help elevate any medical/food/gas expenses that we can,” the fundraiser said. “If you are unable to give that’s absolutely ok, please share! They need all the love and support during this difficult time. Prayers are also very welcome.”