WILSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — In a tragic accident at Boxwell Scout Reservation Tuesday, a Boxwell Camp staff member was severely injured and a child attending the camp was killed.
The accident happened on Old Hickory Lake — it was a jet ski crash.
Officials say 10-year-old Jack Gear was on the jet ski with a 19-year-old staff member who was driving when the crash happened. The Boy Scouts Middle Tennessee Council said the camper was part of a National Guard family and was participating in the Tennessee National Guard’s annual Youth Development Week.
The 10-year-old was taken to Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital, where he died. The 19-year-old was taken to Vanderbilt Medical Center for treatment.
Both of the personal watercraft were owned by Boxwell Reservation and being operated by staff, according to officials. This is the third boat-related death on Old Hickory Lake in 2024.
The Boy Scouts of America Middle Tennessee Council sent a statement regarding what happened, sending condolences to the people involved.
We are all devastated and heartbroken over the tragic accident and doing everything possible to care for all those involved and affected by providing counseling and support to the families, campers, and staff during this difficult time. Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies are with the families suffering this great loss and we grieve with them in this trying time
Union City Schools is mourning the loss of Gear and have issued the following statements.
“Our hearts are heavy, and our collective thoughts, prayers, and love are extended to Jack’s family,” UC Director of Schools Wes Kennedy said. “We will provide whatever emotional support is needed to the family and his classmates.”
Jack attended Union City Elementary School through the fourth grade, which he completed during the 2023-24 school year. He was enrolled at UC Middle School for the upcoming year.
Union City Elementary School Principal Allison Palmer extended a heartfelt message to her faculty announcing the news, saying: “He was such a bright kid who’ll be dearly missed.”
It’s a sad reality that area animal shelters and non-profit rescue organizations face constant overcrowding -- with so many dogs, cats and other animals waiting for a forever home. Jason Lamb reports here that Metro leaders are working with those groups – including Critter Cavalry – to find solutions. I’ve fostered a dog from Critter Cavalry, so I understand the need is great. And I found my pup Domino through another local group, Proverbs Animal Rescue. Ultimately, it starts with all of us. Getting more dogs and cats spayed or neutered can help control the pet population – and ease the burden.
-Rhori Johnston
