Donations are pouring in after a tragic incident during a harness race in Woodstock.
A three-year-old boy died after being hit by the starting gate attached to the pacing truck, according to River Valley Sun, a local newspaper.
It happened at the Connell Park Raceway in the western New Brunswick community on Saturday afternoon.
The Woodstock Driving Club, which manages the raceway, is accepting donations for the family.
“If you’re able to donate, it would be deeply appreciated. If not, simply sharing this post to help spread the word means just as much,” the club said in a Facebook post.
Police are investigating the incident but believe at this point it was accidental.
Dr. Mitchell Downey, president of Horse Racing New Brunswick, said they are deeply saddened by the tragedy.
Downey told the paper he believes this is only the third time in North America someone has died from being struck by the starting gate.
As many of you know, there was a tragic accident last night at our racetrack. The Woodstock Driving Club is now…
Posted by Connell Park Raceway – Woodstock NB on Sunday, June 15, 2025
