13-Year-Old Boy Dies After Tetherball Rope Found Around Neck

A photo of the Knight Family from a GoFundMe page.Photo:gofundme

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A 13-year-old boy in Utah died after he was found with a tetherball rope around his neck, according to authorities.

The boy was transported to a local hospital and then transferred to another location for additional care where he later died, reported KSTU.

In a statement to KSL.com, Sevier County Sheriff Nathan Curtis said that there was no indication of foul play or suspicious activity, and that what happened on Saturday is believed to be an accident.

PEOPLE reached out to the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office Tuesday for additional information, but did not receive an immediate response.

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“Maximus was a beautiful, sweet and loving child who brought so much joy to his family and to his community," wrote Laurie Ann Thor in the fundraiser description. “The youngest of his family, Maximus made every effort to impress his big brothers and care for those around him. Our hearts are broken as we struggle to make sense of this tragedy. We will forever mourn his passing.

“Residing in Venice (Richfield), Utah, the Knight family has shown devotion to their community," the tribute continued. “As [a] labor of love, the Knight family brought joy and togetherness to many with their family corn maze. Maximus was actively involved with the family corn maze and with his community.”

The GoFundMe, according to Thor, will raise funds for emergency medical care and funeral expenses. As of Tuesday morning, it has generated over $20,000 of a $50,000 goal.

PEOPLE contacted Thor for additional comment, but did not receive an immediate response.

source: people.com