A vibrant and spirited young boy’s life was tragically cut short following a car accident that occurred on the way home from a church trip to Dollywood Amusement Park. Aidan Linville, a 13-year-old from Sparta, Tennessee, passed away after succumbing to injuries sustained in the crash. His untimely death has left his family, friends, and the entire community in deep mourning.

Aidan had spent the day before his passing enjoying the thrills and excitement of Dollywood with his church group from Doyle Church of the Nazarene. The group had made the trip to Pigeon Forge for a day of fellowship and fun, and by all accounts, Aidan made the most of it. A GoFundMe page set up to support his grieving family noted that Aidan had an “epic day” at the amusement park, living life to the fullest and enjoying every moment with his friends

However, the joy of that day quickly turned to tragedy. On the journey home, a serious car accident occurred when the driver of another vehicle ran a red light and crashed into the van carrying Aidan and his friends. Although first responders initially believed Aidan’s injuries were stable, it soon became apparent that the damage was far more severe. He was rushed to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, where he later passed away.

In the wake of Aidan’s death, his family, friends, and church community are struggling to cope with the sudden loss of a boy who brought so much light and happiness into their lives. Aidan was remembered as a “vibrant soul” who had a unique ability to touch the hearts of those around him. He was deeply loved by his family and cherished by his church family, his Boy Scout troop, and his school friends. Aidan’s infectious laughter, kindness, and adventurous spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

“Aidan was a bright light in our lives — full of unending energy, kindness, and a spirit that touched everyone he met,” his family shared in a statement. “He loved his family deeply, cherished his church community, and formed lasting friendships through his involvement in Boy Scouts and school.”

The GoFundMe campaign, established to help Aidan’s family cover medical expenses, funeral costs, and other unforeseen expenses, has raised over $11,500 of its $20,000 goal as of Thursday afternoon. In addition to the online fundraiser, those wishing to support the family can make donations to the “Aidan Linville Memorial Fund” at Tennessee First National Bank in Sparta.

Tyler Brandes, a family friend, spoke to local news station WVLT-TV, highlighting Aidan’s love for his family, especially his father, a single parent and amputee who lost his arm in an industrial accident. “He just had a blast, a lot of fun, and just enjoyed the rides and being with his friends,” Brandes said of Aidan’s day at Dollywood. “He was always helping his dad with things.”

The accident, which occurred in Crossville, also resulted in minor injuries for other passengers in the van, while the driver of the car that caused the crash was unharmed. The devastating incident happened just days before Aidan was set to begin eighth grade at White County Middle School, where grief counselors have been made available to support students and staff as they process the loss of their classmate.

Ken Hatfield, another family friend, remembered Aidan as a “very loving child” with an “innocent heart” who “brightened up the room by just walking in.” Aidan’s death has left a void in the lives of those who knew him, and his memory will undoubtedly be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to be touched by his kindness and joyful spirit.

Details regarding a memorial service for Aidan are expected to be announced soon as the community comes together to honor the life of a boy whose light shone brightly, even if only for a brief time.