01 November 2023 , 14:20
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A 13-year old boy has died after accidentally strangling himself to death with a tetherball rope.
Maximus Knight, who was 13, was helping to tidy his family's Knights Corn Maze farm in Venice, Utah, when tragedy struck. After realising he was missing on Saturday, his family set out on a frantic search to locate the youngster, only to discover him with the rope around his neck.
Maximus wasn't breathing and had no pulse, but emergency services managed to revive him on their arrival. He was rushed to the local hospital before being transferred to a more specialist infirmary on the Wasatch Front, where he later passed away.
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Sevier County Sheriff Nathan Curtis believes the incident was an accident, stating there was no evidence of suspicious activity or foul play. Maximus' exact cause of death will be determined by the state medical examiner's office in due course, meanwhile.
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A GoFundMe page has since been established by Maximus' aunt, Laurie Ann Thor, who is appealing for help with the family's medical expenses and funeral costs. After three days it had raised almost $25,000 of its $30,000 goal.
Laurie Ann wrote on the page: "The Knight family is in need of your support. On 10/28/23, a tragic accident took the life of 13 year old Maximus Knight. Maximus was a beautiful, sweet and loving child who brought so much joy to his family and to his community."
Maximus' tragic death occurred on his family's Knights Corn Maze farm premises (Getty Images/iStockphoto)She continued: "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. As 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.
"As Maximus Knight’s aunt, I am raising funds for my sister and her family. We are a close family and are doing the best we can to care for one another. In this difficult time, I request your support in helping the Knight family with unexpected expenses associated with emergency medical care (AirMed, ICU, etc.) and funeral services. Forever in our hearts, Maximus Knight (1/20/10 – 10/28/23)."
After pledging to the fund, one local backer penned the heartfelt message: "Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this most difficult time. Our daughter is married to Clay Curtis who live down the lane by the corn maze. Our grandchildren enjoyed the Knight Corn Maze a few weeks ago and hope that you will be able to continue offering this fun activity in Max's memory. May you find peace, comfort and understanding in the difficult days ahead."