ELYRIA, Ohio — Elyria police confirm that a 9-year-old boy was killed and a 10-year-old boy was hurt after they were struck by a vehicle while riding their bikes in the 100 block of Burns Road at 5:56 p.m. on Saturday.
Based on an initial investigation, police say the driver of a Jeep SUV was traveling east when they attempted to maneuver around two children riding bicycles on the road.
"Tragically, as the boys changed direction, they collided with the Jeep," according to Elyria police.
Despite life-saving efforts, police say 9-year-old Bryant Tide Bartlett was pronounced dead at the scene.
The 10-year-old boy was transported by Life Care Ambulance to University Hospital - Elyria Medical Center and was later airlifted to UH Rainbows and Babies Children’s Hospital.
Police say the 10-year-old remains in critical, but stable condition. "Our thoughts are with him and we wish him a speedy recovery," said Elyria police in a release.
The 20-year-old driver of the Jeep was not hurt in the accident.
"The accident remains under investigation and no charges have been filed," according to Elyria police. "Alcohol and drugs do not appear to be a factor at this time."
Elyria City Schools released the following statement on their official Facebook page:
"Good afternoon, our Pioneer family is mourning the deaths of two beloved students. The losses are not connected, one student passed after bravely battling a lengthy illness, and the other student was lost in a tragic accident this weekend. The students attended different schools. They touched many lives and will be profoundly missed. There are no words for these devastating times but our deepest condolences are with the families and friends of these beloved children. Our crisis team of school counselors and social workers were present at each of the impacted schools today and they will continue to be available to support our students and staff. Please do not hesitate to reach out if your student is in need of support. Our love to all. Please continue to love and support one another."
At this time, Elyria police are continuing to investigate the incident. Tide's family has set up a GoFundMe to help raise money for his mother.
"Disbelief, devastation, crying" Tide's father Stephen Bartlett told 3News of his current emotions. "I don't think it's really hit me yet. As a prior law enforcement (officer), I've been kind of through this before, but not when it's ... your blood."
Bartlett described his son as "so full of life" and also offered his prayers to the family of the 10-year-old. Additionally, he's joining a chorus of neighbors describing the road as dangerous.
"I don't want my son's tragedy to turn into somebody else's tragedy," Bartlett said. "There absolutely needs to be ... speed bumps, speed tables, something. There's a road right there on the very top of the hill. Maybe turn that into a stop sign. You know, something to protect our children."