‘Sweet Boy’, 2, Dies in Rugby Club as Father Tries to Save Him: ‘Our Hearts Are Shattered’
- Oliver Koch tragically died while at a Rugby Club with his father.
- His father desperately tried to save him, but Oliver died shortly after the accident.
- The Koch family has been immensely supported by their local community.
Oliver Koch, a two-year-old boy, tragically lost his life while out with his father at a Rugby club. The father and son were at the Old Bar Rugby Union Club in New South Wales, on Sunday afternoon.
A scrum machine, a heavy device used to help rugby players practice rucking, fell on Oliver. The two-year-old’s father did everything he could to save his young son and called for help.
However, the little boy suffered serious injuries. After the father’s desperate efforts to save his son and having witnesses perform CPR, Oliver did not make it.
A friend of the Koch family set up a GoFundMe page to help the family during this difficult time. The organizer, Kerrie Johnson, expressed, “The Koch family are well loved in our community, and our hearts are shattered for them after the devastating loss of their sweet boy, Oliver.”
Two people holding hands | Source: Shutterstock
So far, $49,255 has been raised to assist the Koch family, which has surpassed the goal of $30,000. The family received donations from 429 people, and some left heartfelt messages, sending their condolences.
Commenters could not wrap their heads around what the family of the two-year-old boy could be going through but wished them strength through this dark time in their lives. “This is unthinkably tragic. I am so so sorry for your loss,” expressed a netizen.
Johnson also added to the comments, extending her love to the family. “We love you guys, and we are so grateful to have such wonderful memories of Ollie,” wrote the family friend.
A couple comforting each other | Source: Shutterstock
The community of Old Bar created something special in memory of Oliver. Many people put different colored handprints on a large poster, and in the middle of that work of art were the words, “Always in our hearts. We will stand beside you and hold your hand.”
The banner was placed on the sports grounds where Oliver lost his life, in addition to many more tributes from the community. Another person who got to be part of Oliver’s life was his swimming instructor.
The instructor expressed how heartbreaking it was to hear about Oliver’s passing. “An absolute tragedy for such a beautiful family, one I’ve had the privilege to teach. RIP Ollie. I’m so, so sorry,” added the instructor.
A man with his hands on his head | Source: Shutterstock
The authorities are investigating the incident to determine how it all happened. However, the case is treated as an accident instead of a criminal investigation. The Koch family has received immense support from their local community, and Oliver’s death has touched the hearts of many.