The mood quickly turned somber following the Mt. Juliet Christmas parade Saturday. In the unloading of floats in the Mt. Juliet Middle School parking lot, a float was backing up when the 7 year old fell off the float and was run over. In news reports, a family friend and witness said the boy seemed to be sucked by the wheel. That same friend identified the boy as Rowan Frensley. The driver of the float was his father. No charges have been filed.
Residents of Mt Juliet and friends gathered at the scene for prayer circles as authorities cleared a path for medical help to get to the boy. He was taken to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital where he died of his injuries.
The community is heavy with sadness and support for the family.
One resident wrote in the Hip Mt. Juliet FB page:
In the midst of this tragedy, it warms my heart to see our community pull together for one of our own! I know the family appreciates having this army of support surrounding them!
A 4pm candle lightA 4pm candlelight vigil is planned for today (Dec 15th) at Mt Juliet Middle School.
Wilson County Schools released this statement:
There is a Go Fund Me page set up for the family.
Our prayers are with the family in this terrible time and our thanks to the wonderful people of Mt. Juliet for coming together to support them.