A 15-year-old boy has died after succumbing to the severe injuries he gained when a loose lorry wheel struck him while helping his dad change a flat tyre.
William Jason Lamont Bell Jr. passed away after spending several days on life support trying to recover from the accident that took place near Lake County, in the US State of Indiana, on 15th August.
The teen was helping his father – William Jason Lamont Bell Sr. – change a flat tyre at the side of the I-80 interstate.
While outside, a semi-lorry that was passing by somehow lost its wheel along with the rim.
The heavy tyre landed on the boy and knocked him to the pavement.
Indiana State Police said the victim was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries.
William Jr. was later transferred to a hospital in Chicago, Illinois, where he died from the injuries.
His father told local media they were headed on a family trip to Kentucky when the tragic accident occurred.
He added that everything happened so fast that it took him some time to realise what had happened.
William Sr. said his son was eager to help without even being asked.
The grief-stricken father said: “Losing my son was tragic. He is in a much, much better place that we’re trying to get to.”
He added: “He wore his heart in his face.
“He’s always Baby Boy, Junior. He was always a face of contentment, and a face just of gladness.”
William has just turned 15 in July.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, his father wished him a happy birthday with the words: “Though I’m a day late, help me wish him a happy birthday!!!
“Thanking God for this young man of God who, many of you know, is a kid magnet, has a great sense of humor, loves God, and is intrigued by the things of God, and just started working his first job with After School Matters!!!
“I’m very proud of you son and so is God!!! Love you.”
The family has decided to donate his organs, adding they believe that is what their son would have wanted as well.
The driver of the semi that lost the wheel was reportedly taken for drug and alcohol tests after the accident following protocol.
Police said the results are still pending but they are not believed to have been a factor in the crash.
The lorry was impounded for a post-crash inspection.
