6-year-old boy dies from go-kart crash in Meriden park

MERIDEN, CT (WFSB) - A 6-year-old boy died from a go-kart crash in Meriden on Tuesday night.

According to Lt. Darrin McKay from Meriden police, officers were dispatched to the area of 88 Westview Dr. at approximately 7:45 p.m.

The incident happened at Kronenberger Park.

“Callers reported that a child had been driving the go-kart and sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash,” said Sgt. Adam Kery, Meriden police. “Emergency services were activated to include the Meriden Fire Department, Hunters Ambulance, and a Life Star medical helicopter.”

Police said the preliminary investigation revealed that the go-kart was occupied by two boys, ages 6 and 4.

“While driving in the parking lot of Kronenberger Park, the go-kart collided with and rode under a closed swing gate intended to prevent vehicles from driving onto the athletic fields,” Kery said. “The 6-year-old child was wearing a helmet but sustained a traumatic injury.”

The boy was transported to Midstate Medical Center where, despite the lifesaving efforts of first responders and hospitalists, he was pronounced dead, police said.

“The 4-year-old child had no major injuries but was transported to Connecticut Children’s Medical Center for evaluation,” Kery said.

Family members were on scene and cooperated with the investigation.

“It was a good day that turned out to be the worst day ever,” said Alec A., Meriden.

16-year-old Alec says Adrian is the 6-year-old boy who died while riding his go-kart. She tied balloons at a memorial post.

“It’s really sad and hurtful. It’s going to be a while before I recover from it,” Alec said.

Alec says she was there that fatal night, playing with the kids she says are like her younger brothers.

“It was an accident. He went to turn around because we were telling him to stop. He turned around, got scared, and hit his head,” Alec said.

Devastated, Christina Meadows also left two stuffed animals and a candle at the crash site.

She knows what heartbreaking loss feels like. She’s still trying to manage the pain.

“I lost my dad a couple years ago from COVID so I know going through it and today’s been one of those days where I’ve been so emotional and I think hearing the story of the little boy you don’t want ever to lose a child,” Meadows said.

Meadows lives up the street from the park. She heard the sirens Tuesday night and rushed over.

“Step siblings were watching or at least in the area they were here. Everyone saw it. People were really concerned,” said Meadows.

A GoFundMe has raised more than 25 thousand dollars for the family.

A local pizza shop, Illiano’s, is matching every donation given through them for the family.

“If there’s money left over and the family wants to take the kids to Disney with the extra money, by all means, go. If the money is there, try to release the stress and change things that have happened. Try to bring something good,” said Carrie Teele, Illiano’s.

Teele helps run the restaurant and says she and her boyfriend are active community members. They have been in touch with the family and said it was a no-brainer to help.

Alec says she’s seen support for the family on social media and she’s glad the community has come together.

“It makes my heart feel good because at least people are helping out Kali. The support is really good,” Alec said.

Alec plans to visit Adrian’s memorial daily, but she still wishes for that one more thing.

“I wish I could hug you one more time and I really miss you,” said Alec.

Donations will be taken at Illiano’s until April 25th.

A candlelight vigil is planned for Adrian on Saturday on the town green in Meriden, at 6 pm.