The Union Middle School family is mourning the death of a loving 8th grader, Gus, who sadly lost his life in a utility vehicle (UTV) accident late Tuesday afternoon. This heartbreaking occurrence shook the community of Union, Missouri. Parents, teachers and students at Union Middle School and the surrounding Union community were shaken by the heartbreaking news, which left them bewildered by the unexpected death of a promising young life.
For privacy reasons, Gus' full name has not been released. He was a 13-year-old boy with a lively personality and a love of exploration. Friends and mentors described him as energetic, humorous and kind. He was well liked by his peers and actively participated in school events. Those who knew him will always appreciate his unexpected loss, and the community has come together in shared sadness over this tragic event.
Gus and two friends were driving a Polaris Ranger utility vehicle on Sandstone Trail when the tragic accident happened around 6 p.m. The UTV overturned because Gus, the driver, neglected to turn left while the group of three 13-year-olds were maneuvering in a field, according to reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Gus is catastrophically injured and pronounced dead at the scene, leaving his companions shocked and amazed by the tragic events that unfolded.
The circumstances surrounding the incident prompted an investigation into the rules governing UTV operation. When operating such vehicles, Cpl. Logan Bolton of the Missouri State Highway Patrol emphasized the need for safety, saying, “As far as the laws go, when it comes to UTVs on the road, they must be operated by a licensed driver.” But there is no age limit on private property. This legal provision highlights the complex nature of off-road vehicle use among teenage drivers and the dangers that may arise from seemingly harmless recreational pursuits.
