A community in Eastern Ontario is mourning after a 9-year-old boy died after he was hit by a school bus while riding his bike.
The boy has been identified on social media as Archer Lowe from Almonte, Ontario.
He was hit while riding his bike near a school at around 3:40 p.m. on June 25, according to Ontario Provincial Police. Witnesses “conducted life-saving measures” for Archer at the scene, they said.
The boy was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries and later died, police said.
The Lanark County OPP is investigating.
His mother, Sarah Lavergne, said the family lost “the most important part of us tragically” in a post on social media.
“I can’t even put into words how much this hurts. To lose my sweet boy so instantly. I love you Archer forever and ever my boy,” she said. “Please hug and kiss your kids everyday and let them know how much you love them like I did to my son.”
The mayor of Mississippi Mills, Christa Lowry, issued a statement offering “deepest sympathies” to Archer’s family on behalf of the municipality, which includes the town of Almonte.
“Archer was an important member of our community. He was a vibrant kid with a big smile who loved animals, especially his dog ‘Moose,’” Lowry wrote. “He loved riding his bike and was a terrific soccer player – the best and fastest defence in his league.”
She said the community shared in the “deep pain” of the tragedy.
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of young Archer and stand in support of all those who are grieving and to those affected by this accident,” she wrote.
The mayor also said the community was “strongly bound by compassion” and would mourn the loss together and be there for “all those touched by this tragedy.”
Flags at all municipal buildings have been lowered in Archer’s honour, she said.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help the family cover the costs of funeral arrangements and a celebration of life. The money will also go toward therapy and counselling for the family “to provide relief so the family can take time to grieve.”
It was set up by Michelle Maguire, who said Archer loved soccer and Pokémon.
“He had a big smile and he loved riding his bike,” Maguire wrote. “Most of all he loved his family.”
The fundraiser has raised more than $70,000 as of June 26.
