The police officers, firefighters and paramedics who responded to a carnival ride accident in Antioch last month that left a boy critically injured have been recognized by the mayor.
Antioch Mayor Scott Gartner honored approximately a dozen first responders during a board of trustees meeting on Wednesday.
Gartner handed out certificates one-by-one to each officer and firefighter or paramedic.
The Antioch Fire Department and Antioch Police Department responded on July 16 after 10-year-old Huntley Daniels was seriously injured while riding the Moby Dick ride at the Taste of Antioch festival.
Fire department radio dispatch indicated the boy was possibly thrown 10-12 feet while seated on the ride.
A LifeNet medical helicopter landed nearby and flew the child to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge.
He was later flown from Lutheran General to Comer Children’s Hospital in Chicago for further treatment due to the extent of his injuries.
He suffered multiple facial and jaw fractures and a significant injury to the bones in one leg, village officials said.
The child was initially listed in critical condition. The child’s mother, Kayte Daniels, said Huntley had undergone major surgeries and was stabilized.
He was released from the hospital last week but has a long road to recovery.
The village announced they are collaborating with the local business community to offer support to Huntley.
Various local businesses and community groups have already stepped up to help provide financial assistance to the family.
The final concert of the “It’s Thursday” summer concert series, scheduled for August 10, will be dedicated to aiding Huntley in his journey to recovery, a village spokesperson said.
The acclaimed rock cover band Mike and Joe will perform during the event, which will be a family-friendly evening of entertainment.
An array of food and beverages will be for sale served by Antioch business owners and staff.
Attendees can participate in raffles and other activities. All profits from the evening will go to Huntley and his family.
Notes and cards will be collected during the event and shared with the boy.
Numerous businesses in the village have also been fundraising as well as donating money from sales to the family.
Gartner said he is proud of the enthusiastic response from the local community.
“I am moved by the overwhelming support the Antioch community has shown for Huntley and his family. Together, we stand strong, committed to providing him and his family with assistance,” Gartner said.
“This event is a testament to the strength of our community bonds,” Gartner added.
A criminal investigation is active and ongoing, according to the police department.