Wadsworth, OH (June 25, 2026) – A 3-year-old boy was seriously hurt Tuesday evening, June 23, after being struck during the Blue Tip Parade in Wadsworth. The crash happened around 6:40 p.m. on Broad Street near Auble Street.
Officials said the child was watching the parade from the tree lawn when a modified ride-on car left the roadway. The operator had lost control while performing a stunt.
The vehicle hit the child as he watched the parade with his mother. He was taken to Akron Children’s Hospital with several broken bones and a head injury.
The boy remained hospitalized as of Wednesday evening. The police said alcohol and drugs are not believed to have been factors; still, they are reviewing video and other details to determine how the accident happened.
We hope the child receives steady care and makes a safe recovery.
How Parade Route Crashes Can Put Spectators at Risk
Parade routes usually place spectators close to moving vehicles, floats, and special displays. Even when traffic is moving slowly, a vehicle that leaves the route can reach people on sidewalks, lawns, or curbs very quickly.
Children may face greater danger because they are smaller and may be seated or standing near the edge of the road. A sudden movement by a parade vehicle can leave little time for a parent or spectator to react.
After this type of crash, investigators may review video, vehicle speed, operator actions, and the spacing between the parade route and the crowd. Safety planning may also include barriers, route rules, and limits on stunts near spectators.
