13-year-old boy dies in tragic accident after attending church in Dollywood

The life of a vibrant and spirited boy ended tragically after a car accident on the way home from a church trip to Dollywood Amusement Park. Aidan Linville, a 13-year-old from Sparta, Tennessee, died Sunday from injuries sustained in the accident. His untimely death has left his family, friends and the entire community deeply saddened.

Aidan had spent the day before his death enjoying the thrill and excitement of Dollywood with his church group from Doyle Church of the Nazarene. The group had headed to Pigeon Forge for a day of fellowship and fun, and by all appearances, Aidan made the most of it. A GoFundMe page set up to support his grieving family said Aidan had an “epic day” at the amusement park, living life to the fullest and enjoying every moment with his friends.

But the joy of that day quickly turned into tragedy. On the way home, a serious car accident occurred when the driver of another vehicle ran a red light and crashed into the van that Aidan and his friends were in. Although emergency responders initially believed Aidan's injuries were stable, it soon became apparent that the damage was far more serious. He was taken to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, where he later died.

Following Aidan's death, his family, friends and church community are struggling to cope with the sudden loss of a boy who brought so much light and happiness into their lives. Aidan will be remembered as a “vibrant soul” who had a unique ability to touch the hearts of those around him. His family loved him deeply and his church community, scout group and school friends held him in high esteem. Aidan's infectious laugh, kindness and adventurous spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

“Aidan was a bright spot in our lives – full of endless energy, kindness and a spirit that touched everyone he met,” his family said in a statement. “He loved his family deeply, cherished his church community and made lasting friendships through his involvement in Boy Scouts and at school.”

The GoFundMe campaign to help Aidan's family cover medical costs, funeral expenses and other unforeseen expenses has raised more than $11,500 of its $20,000 goal as of Thursday afternoon. In addition to the online fundraiser, those wishing to support the family can donate to the Aidan Linville Memorial Fund at Tennessee First National Bank in Sparta.

Tyler Brandes, a family friend, spoke to local news station WVLT-TV and emphasized Aidan's love for his family, especially his father, a single father and amputee who lost his arm in a work accident. “He was just having a blast, having a lot of fun and enjoying the rides and being with his friends,” Brandes said of Aidan's day at Dollywood. “He was always helping his dad with things.”

The Crossville crash also left other passengers in the van with minor injuries, but the driver of the car that caused the crash was unharmed. The devastating incident occurred just days before Aidan was set to start eighth grade at White County Middle School, where grief counselors are on hand to help students and staff cope with the loss of their classmate.

Ken Hatfield, another family friend, remembered Aidan as a “very loving child” with an “innocent heart” who “brightened everything when he came in.” Aidan's death has left a void in the lives of those who knew him, and his memory will no doubt be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to be touched by his kindness and cheerful spirit.

Details of a memorial service for Aidan are expected to be announced shortly, when the community will come together to honor the life of a boy whose light shone brightly, if only for a short time.