A 14-year-old boy has tragically died following a serious crash involving a farm vehicle in County Durham just days before Christmas.
Tragic Incident on a County Durham Farm
Aaron Anderson, a schoolboy from Consett, sustained life-threatening injuries when the John Deere Gator he was in overturned. The incident occurred on a farm off the B6310 near Burnopfield on December 21.
Emergency services rushed the teenager to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle for specialist treatment. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, Durham Constabulary confirmed Aaron died from his injuries on Boxing Day.
A Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
In a moving statement, Aaron's devastated family paid tribute to a boy who was 'always happiest working on farms and fixing trucks'. They described him as a much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend who will be deeply missed.
'Even at the age of 14 he had an amazing work ethic and already had two apprenticeship offers,' the family said. 'Although we are saddened about the life he will never have, we are so thankful for the life he has lived and will cherish all the happy memories he left us with.'
They also expressed profound gratitude for the support received from the community and the emergency services, particularly the staff at the Royal Victoria Infirmary.
Ongoing Police Investigation
A second boy, aged 13, was also seriously injured in the same tractor crash. He has since been released from hospital and is continuing his recovery at home.
Durham Constabulary's Serious Collision Investigation Unit is continuing its enquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding the collision. Officers are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
Anyone who may have details that could assist the investigation is asked to contact the police by emailing sciu@durham.police.uk or calling 101, quoting incident number 401 of December 21.
The family has requested privacy as they grieve the loss of their son.
