By Erika Hernandez
Two children died and three other minors were injured after a facet-by-facet all-terrain vehicle, driven by a seven-year-old girl,crashed in a rural area of the Canadian province of British Columbia.
The victims were identified as Jordan Poulin, 8, and Jadyn Barrett, 7. The accident occurred on June 4, around 1:00 p.m., near the Barrett family farm, outside the town of Pouce Coupe, CTV News reported.
According to the Staunch Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Five children were traveling aboard the vehicle when the driver lost control. The unit overturned repeatedly and traveled a notable distance before stopping.
Jordan Poulin, who was just days shy of his ninth birthday, died at the scene of the accident.
Jadyn Barrett suffered extremely serious injuries and was taken by helicopter to a health center in Edmonton, in the province of Alberta. However, he died two days later due to his injuries.
“Jadyn, my daughter, has gone to heaven. She is running through the streets of gold,” her father, Luke Barrett, wrote in a post on social media after learning of her death.
The other three minors traveling in the vehicle suffered minor injuries and received medical attention.
Ongoing investigation
The authorities maintain an open investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the accident and establish whether there was any type of criminal responsibility.
“As a parent, I cannot imagine the unimaginable and tragic loss these families have suffered. Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this unthinkable event,” said RCMP spokesperson Sergeant Kris Clark.
Clark also indicated that it is still too early to determine whether charges will be filed in connection with the case.
“Investigators will examine all aspects to establish whether there was any legal conduct,” he said.
Restrictions for minors
Current legislation in British Columbia states that minors under 16 years of age cannot operate facet-by-facet vehicles with passengers on board. Additionally, both the driver and occupants must meet minimum height and weight requirements and be under adult supervision.
The authorities have not reported who was responsible for supervising the minors at the time of the accident or whether the conditions required by the regulations were met.
A facet-by-facet is a motorized vehicle designed for off-road travel and commonly used in rural, agricultural, and recreational areas.
While investigations continue, the Pouce Coupe community remains shocked by the death of the two girls, whose families have received numerous expressions of support and solidarity.
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