A 5-year-old Florida boy was crushed to death Wednesday when a digital whiteboard that was mounted to a wall somehow fell on him at his elementary school — and now his family is looking for answers.
First responders rushed to Riviera Elementary School in Palm Bay around 11:30 a.m., where desperate staff and paramedics scrambled to save young Bellamy Dawkins-Morris.
He succumbed to his injuries later at a local hospital, according to WFTV.
“This is a tragedy that should never happen to Bellamy. Our family is grieving horribly,” the boy’s great-aunt, Melissa Rodriguez, told The Post.
“They should’ve been paying attention to him better,” she said.
Brevard County Schools is now rushing to inspect all of its Smartboard-style displays across schools.
“We understand that this tragedy may raise questions and concerns among families and staff about similar equipment in our schools,” the district stated.
“Promethean boards across the District are installed by a licensed third-party vendor in accordance with manufacturer guidelines.”
In a separate note to parents, the district added: “We are saddened by the heartbreaking news of a tragic accident that occurred yesterday at Riviera Elementary School.”
“A five-year-old student was seriously injured when a large video display (Promethean) board, which was mounted on the wall, fell on the student.”
“Despite immediate emergency medical care and continued efforts by medical personnel, the student tragically passed away,” the statement continued.
Bellamy, who was on the spectrum, was a happy child cherished by his family.
“This little boy was loved by everyone in his family and anyone who ever met him,” said Rodriguez.
“He was such a happy little boy, always smiling, running around making you laugh with the things that he did. He is missed horribly. We want justice for Bellamy.”
Rodriguez said the family is considering legal action following the tragedy.
“The family is still angry. The family is hurt. Our hearts are broken. We are seeking counsel.”
