The family of a five-year-old boy who died from his injuries after he was crushed by a parking meter in Western Australia has remembered him for “bringing joy with his cheeky, playful nature”.
Sammy was hospitalised in a critical condition last week after he was hit by a parking meter in a courtyard of the Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre, about 175 kilometres south of Perth.
He died from his injuries at Perth Children’s Hospital on Friday.
“We are so grateful for the support that we have received from family, friends and the general public,” his family said in a statement today.
“We would also like to acknowledge the support from the staff at the museum, first responders and the care given to Sammy at the BRH (Bunbury Regional Hospital) and PCH (Perth Children’s Hospital), which was so loving and respectful.
“Sammy impacted everyone he met.
“He was wise beyond his years and brought so much joy with his cheeky, playful nature.”
St John Ambulance paramedics treated Sammy at the museum courtyard before he was rushed to a local hospital.
He was then airlifted to Perth Children’s Hospital.
City officials said their thoughts were with the child’s family, and that they had offered them their support.
Outside the museum, flowers were laid in the little boy’s memory, including from the City of Bunbury.
The council said it would work with authorities throughout the investigation into the tragic accident.
The Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre will remain closed for another week.
