According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Aidan Linville was killed in a traffic accident in Crossville on Sunday.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Crossville Police are investigating a crash that occurred Sunday in Crossville that left 13-year-old Aidan Linville dead.

Linville and a group from his church in Sparta were traveling to East Tennessee to spend a day at Dollywood before returning home. Shortly after the group returned to Sparta, the accident occurred.

“He was just having a blast, having a lot of fun and enjoying the rides and being with his friends,” said Tyler Brandes, a family friend.

Brandes was the leader of Boy Scout Troop 128 in Sparta, to which Linville had belonged for the past few years.

He described Linville as an energetic, wild teenager who was interested in Marvel movies and enjoyed hanging out with his friends.

Brandes added that from a young age, Linville was someone who went the extra mile for others, which was evident in the way he interacted with his family.

“His father is a single father. His father has an amputated arm and lost it in an accident at work. That's why he always helped his father with things,” said Brandes.

Linville had just started eighth grade at White County Middle School in Sparta. Family friends said he was very active in his church and was so excited to be at Dollywood that he tried every attraction in the park and even got blisters on his feet trying to make the most of his day in East Tennessee.

After his death, Linville's family released the following statement:

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Aidan James Linville. Aidan was involved in a tragic car accident on Sunday while returning from a joyful day at Dollywood. Despite the best efforts of local first responders, the Cumberland Medical Center emergency room, and the UT Medical Center medical staff, Aidan's injuries were too severe and he passed away. Aidan was a bright spot in our lives – full of endless energy, kindness, and a spirit that touched everyone he met. He loved his family deeply, cherished his church community, and made lasting friendships through his involvement in Boy Scouts and school. His passing has left a void that will never be filled. We are devastated by this sudden loss and are still in the process of making the necessary arrangements. We are incredibly grateful for the love and support we have received from our community during this heartbreaking time. Aidan's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. We politely request privacy as we navigate through this difficult time. Details of a memorial service will be announced as soon as they are determined. Thank you for your understanding and continued prayers.

A GoFundMe link to support the family can be found here.

Donations are also being accepted at the Tennessee First National Bank in Sparta and made to the Aiden Linville Memorial Fund.

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