A community parade in Green, Ohio, turned tragic on Memorial Day when a local teenager was fatally injured after falling from a moving float.

As reported by ABC News, a 13-year-old boy from North Canton died on May 26 after falling from a parade float in Green, Ohio, and being struck by the trailer he had been riding on, according to local authorities.

The incident occurred late in the morning as the annual Memorial Day parade was underway in Green, a suburban city located just south of Akron in Summit County. According to officials, the teenager was riding on a trailer that was being towed by a pickup truck when the tragedy unfolded. The boy lost his balance and fell off the front of the trailer during the procession.

Tragically, the trailer’s wheels ran over the boy after he fell, causing severe injuries at the scene. Emergency personnel from the Green Fire Department, who were already present monitoring the parade, responded within moments. Bystanders were visibly shaken as paramedics rushed to assist the critically wounded teen.

Immediate Response Fails to Save Teen

The boy was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite life-saving efforts made en route and at the hospital, the teen was later pronounced dead. Authorities confirmed his death through the Green Fire Department, which called the incident devastating for the tight-knit community.

The teenager, whose name has not yet been publicly released, was a resident of North Canton. The Summit County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that an investigation is ongoing and emphasized that the event is being treated as a “tragic accident.” No charges have been filed as of now, and officials have stated that further details will be released as they continue to review what happened leading up to the fall.

Following the incident, event organizers immediately shut down the remainder of the parade. Local media outlet WEWS, an ABC affiliate based in Cleveland, reported that the cancellation came swiftly after first responders took action. Attendees were seen leaving the area in silence, many visibly emotional.

Community and Officials React with Grief

In an official statement released on Monday afternoon, Green Mayor Rocco Yeargin expressed condolences to the teen’s family and emphasized the city’s commitment to supporting them. “Our hearts go out to the family at this time of terrible loss,” he said.

Mayor Yeargin added that the city “will look to support them as a Green community any way that we can.” His statement reflected the heartbreak deeply felt throughout the city as residents learned about the loss of the young teen who was merely participating in a festive community tradition.

In response to the tragedy, the Green school district coordinated with North Canton schools to provide counseling services and mental health support for students and staff. Educators and mental health professionals have been made available for those mourning the loss and for young people who may be particularly affected by the sudden and traumatic nature of the event.

Questions Remain About Parade Safety Measures

While investigations are ongoing, many in the community are questioning how such a tragedy could happen in what was supposed to be a monitored and safe environment. Every year, Memorial Day parades like this one bring families together to honor the nation’s fallen service members, making Monday’s incident all the more surreal.

Authorities have not yet commented on whether the trailer met local safety standards or if barriers or supervision procedures were in place. The Summit County Sheriff's Office has not released any findings related to equipment or driver evaluation as part of the ongoing investigation. Until such details are clarified, the death remains categorized as an accident.

Lessons to Learn From This Tragedy

1. Never assume parade floats are safe for children without proper precautions. Children should be secured with protective barriers or restraints when riding floats or trailers, and should always remain seated under adult supervision.

2. Public events must have detailed safety protocols. Organizers should review all vehicle attachments and implement safeguards to monitor participants, particularly minors, during parades and public events.

3. Awareness and vigilance save lives. While no safety measure can guarantee zero risk, being alert and prepared can reduce the chances of severe injury.

Still, it’s essential to remember that accidents can occur despite best efforts and that victims should never be blamed.

Why This Story Matters

This tragedy highlights how quickly joy can turn into heartbreak, underscoring the importance of prioritizing public safety at local events. It reminds everyone that even seemingly routine celebrations require diligent planning and oversight. As Green and neighboring communities grieve, they are also reflecting on how to prevent future accidents of this kind.

Conclusion

A 13-year-old boy from North Canton died on May 26, 2025, after falling from a parade float during the Memorial Day celebration in Green, Ohio, and being struck by the trailer’s wheels. First responders rushed to help immediately, but the child later died at a hospital. The Sheriff’s Office is investigating the event, which the city’s mayor called a “terrible loss.” Counseling services are being provided to the affected families and schools, and the city of Green is rallying in support. The parade ended early amid stunned disbelief as the community grapples with an incident that has forever changed a holiday of remembrance.