A frightening accident unfolded Saturday afternoon in the northwest suburbs of Chicago when a young child was run over by an industrial-style lawn mower. Emergency responders acted swiftly to stabilize the child, who was then airlifted to a trauma center in critical condition.
Accident Details and Immediate Response
The incident occurred around 12:40 p.m. in the 28700-block of West Kristy Lane in Cary, Illinois. Fire officials from the Cary Fire Protection District and paramedics responded to the scene promptly after reports of a serious injury.
Upon arrival, responders found the child with a severe leg wound. A quick-thinking neighbor had already applied a makeshift tourniquet to control the bleeding, a critical step that likely helped save the child’s life before professional medical help arrived.
Airlift to Trauma Center
Due to the severity of the injury, the child was transported by ambulance to the Mercyhealth Hospital in Crystal Lake, where a medical helicopter was on standby. From there, the child was airlifted to Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, a Level 1 trauma center known for handling critical pediatric cases.
Officials stated that the child remains in critical condition, emphasizing the seriousness of the incident.
Investigation Ongoing
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident. Details such as how the child came to be run over by the lawn mower have not yet been disclosed. The case remains under review as authorities gather more information.
Community Reacts with Concern
News of the accident has shaken the local community, with neighbors expressing deep concern and sympathy for the child and family affected. Such accidents, though rare, serve as stark reminders of the inherent dangers posed by powered machinery, especially around children.
Safety experts emphasize the importance of vigilance when using lawn equipment and encourage keeping children and pets at a safe distance during operation.
A Call for Awareness and Prevention
This incident highlights the critical need for safety precautions in residential settings. Adult supervision, clear boundaries, and proper use of machinery are essential to prevent similar tragedies.
Local officials and first responders continue to urge families and residents to stay alert and take proactive measures to safeguard young children during outdoor activities.
