5th grade student killed in ATV crash, sheriff says

SULPHUR, La. (KPLC/Gray News) – An 11-year-old boy was killed Monday after a side-by-side ATV crash in Sulfur, Louisiana.

Two children were riding a Polaris RZR when it overturned, said Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Kayla Vincent.

The accident happened around 11 a.m. on Oct. 14 in the 900 block of Armentor Road

The 11-year-old passenger was partially ejected from the side-by-side during the crash.

Officers attempted life-saving measures on the child before he was taken to an area hospital and pronounced dead.

“Two young children were playing and riding an ATV, and the ATV overturned. One child was ejected and the other was trapped under the ATV. Our deputies attempted to perform lifesaving measures,” said Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Stitch Guillory.

The child’s family identified the victim as Reid Michael Briggs, a fifth-grader at Vincent Settlement Elementary who played baseball for Tornado Athletics. Reid had two brothers.

Vincent Settlement Elementary School shared a statement online that said in part: “He always had a smile on his face, which brought joy and kindness to all who knew him. Our hearts are especially with his mother, a dedicated member of our staff, and her family at this incredibly difficult time.”

A family member’s fundraiser for Reid’s parents surpassed its $30,000 goal Tuesday afternoon.

The child riding side by side was not injured in the accident, according to Vincent. She said the investigation is ongoing, but the death appears to be accidental and no foul play is suspected.

“Unfortunately, accidents can happen in these ATVs at any time, even with parent supervision. Sometimes unfortunate accidents happen and this is one of those cases, and our thoughts go out to the family,” Guillory added.

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