Fatal sledding accident prompts warnings for safer snow play in our local mountains

We are learning more about the tragic accident involving a 7-year-old boy, who died after a sledding accident over the weekend. 

News Channel3’s Dani Romero has more on the warning law enforcement has about safer snow play in our local mountains. 

“Absolutely horrible," said Sunny Aaharns. "My stomach dropped, I couldn’t even sleep last night because it was on my mind.” 

Sunny Aaharns recounts the tragic crash. A frantic woman came inside the Spirit Gas Station asking for help Sunday afternoon. 

“She was crying and little hysteric," said Aaharns. "Somebody call 911. I was like 'What’s going on?' Where are we going to have them come? She said a little boy had gotten run over.” 

The little boy was 7-year- old, Michael Rigg from Beaumont. He and his family were visiting friends in a small mountain community near Idyllwild. 

Police added that the boy was sledding on a snowy driveway.  He slid right into the path of a truck. 

The driver, a man from Desert Hot Springs, stopped to help but the child didn’t survive. 

"That's every mother's worst nightmare," said Aaharns. "Very sad.” 

Witnesses told police the truck was traveling at a low rate of speed. There was no indication that drugs or alcohol were involved. 

Still, California Highway Patrol has a warning for those headed up to our local mountains. 

“You need to be ready for those windy curves," said Matt Napier, Public Information Officer for California Highway Patrol. "If you're going up for the snow, you should already be prepared to know that the roads are going to be wet or icy, even if it doesn't look like it is.” 

If you are hoping to enjoy some snow play, plan ahead.  

“We just ask that you do your research ahead of time, find those places that are public access that are open and do so safely," said Napier.