Multiple investigations and reviews are underway following the death of a toddler Saturday at a horse racing track in Woodstock, N.B. A community support session was held Wednesday evening at the town’s AYR Motor Centre. A social media post from the Town of Woodstock said the support session was open to everyone, with one-on-one and group conversations hosted by mental health professionals. The session also included resources and information for people to take home and guidance about where to access additional support. According to both the Woodstock Police Force and the Atlantic Provinces Harness Racing Commission, a three-year-old child was struck by a starting gate at the Connell Park Raceway on Saturday around 1:20 p.m. The child was taken to the Upper River Valley Hospital in Waterville, N.B., where they died from their injuries. The incident happened during a live race. Woodstock police are calling the incident a “tragic accident” but aren’t confirming the circumstances of how the child was struck. On Wednesday, Woodstock Police Deputy Chief Simon Watts said the investigation was still ongoing. All deaths of individuals aged 18 and under that are reported to the coroner are reviewed by the Child Death Review Committee, once all investigations are complete. The Atlantic Provinces Harness Racing Commission is also conducting an internal review of the incident. The Town of Woodstock says a comprehensive safety review of the Connell Park Raceway is underway, including a safety review of all upcoming events at the location. A RibFest event scheduled at the track this weekend is proceeding as scheduled. The status of upcoming horse races at the track, including an event scheduled for June 28, is unknown. For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
