Northville, Michigan, is reeling from the death of one of its own. Declan Carter, a bright and promising 12-year-old student from Our Lady of Victory (OLV), passed away on a school field trip after a freak accident. The incident occurred at the Howell Nature Center, where Declan, along with his classmates, was participating in an educational outing meant to foster a connection with nature.
As the students listened to a park instructor, tragedy struck. A tree unexpectedly broke and fell on Declan, severely injuring him. Emergency services were immediately called to the scene, and the young boy was airlifted to Mott Children’s Hospital at the University of Michigan. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Declan succumbed to his injuries later that night.
The news has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community of Northville. Declan was known for his vibrant personality and was a beloved member of his school, church, and neighborhood. His passing leaves a profound void not only for his family but for his classmates, teachers, and the broader community. Mayor Brian Turnbull expressed his deep sorrow over the loss, acknowledging that Declan had “his whole life in front of him.”
“It is with a heavy heart that I write to you this morning with sad news regarding one of our young Northvillians who had his whole life in front of him,” the Mayor wrote, sharing his personal connection with Declan and the Carter family. He emphasized the strength and importance of the community coming together to support the grieving family.
Northville school field accident
Declan was more than just a student; he was an integral part of the Northville community. Known for his academic prowess, athleticism, and outgoing nature, Declan made a lasting impact on those around him. He was an excellent runner, one of the top in the area, and was set to achieve great things both on the track and in life. His enthusiasm for learning and his warm personality endeared him to his classmates and teachers alike.
Mayor Turnbull recalled summer days spent with Declan and his sister, Georgia, noting their lemonade stand and the joyful interactions he had with the family. “I had the pleasure of knowing Declan, having visited with him and his sister Georgia in front of their home many times, especially on hot summer afternoons for a lemonade,” he shared, adding that Declan’s passing feels like a deep personal loss for him and for many others who knew the young boy.
The Carter family has long been a respected and admired part of Northville. Declan’s father, John Carter, is a well-known figure as a City Council leader, and his mother, Liz, is deeply involved in the community. Declan leaves behind two sisters, Georgia and Ainsley, who are also mourning the loss of their brother.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, including his father John Carter (an esteemed City Council leader), his mother Liz Carter, and his sisters Georgia and Ainsley,” Mayor Turnbull wrote in his heartfelt statement. The community stands united in its grief and support for the family as they navigate the unimaginable pain of losing a beloved son and brother.
In the wake of this tragedy, Mayor Turnbull has called on the Northville community to come together to honor Declan’s memory. He has petitioned the Governor’s office to lower the flag at City Hall to half-staff in honor of Declan, a gesture that speaks to the deep loss felt by the entire town. The Mayor also urged residents to keep the Carter family in their prayers and to remember Declan by living with the same spirit and energy that he embodied.
“All of our Northville staff who are appointed and elected are like a family. A loss for one is felt by all, along with the rest of our close-knit community,” the Mayor wrote, highlighting the strength and unity of Northville during difficult times.
The death of Declan has left his classmates at OLV grappling with grief, a burden especially heavy for children to bear. The school and local community are working together to provide support to the students who witnessed the tragedy. Counselors and grief support services have been made available to help the children process the loss of their friend and classmate.
“This is very hard for them to comprehend,” one teacher noted, asking for prayers for the students as they navigate this traumatic experience.
Though Declan’s life was tragically cut short, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His spirit, energy, and kindness have left a mark on Northville, and the community will continue to honor him in the days and years to come.
As Northville mourns, it is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. The community stands united in its grief, with hearts full of love and prayers for the Carter family. Declan Carter may be gone, but his spirit will forever remain a part of the town he called home.
