13-Year-Old Critically Injured in Head Trauma, Transferred to Ghent University Hospital
Teenager Critically Injured in Ski Lift Accident Dies
A 13-year-old girl has died after suffering a severe head trauma in an accident at a ski hill in western Quebec, Canada. The girl, whose name has not been released, was critically injured when her clothing became entangled in a ski lift at Centre Vorlage near Wakefield on .
The girl was initially transported to a local hospital before being transferred to the University Hospital of Ghent (UZ Gent) in Belgium, reportedly due to the severity of her injuries and the specialized care available there. Her family confirmed her death earlier today.
While details surrounding the exact circumstances of the accident remain limited, authorities are investigating how the girl’s clothing became caught in the ski lift mechanism. The ski hill has been closed to allow for a thorough investigation and safety review.
This tragedy echoes similar incidents involving young people suffering critical injuries in accidents. Just last year, in October 2025, 13-year-old Bobby Mbuagbaw of Liberty Township, Ohio, was critically injured after being struck by a car. He remains in intensive care at UC Medical Center, according to his family, who held a candlelight vigil for him on . Bobby’s father, Robert Mbuagbaw, described his son as “a happy kid” loved by everyone at school and within the community.
Elsewhere, in Henry County, Georgia, 13-year-old Easton Lacewell is facing a long recovery after a head-on collision in June 2024 left him with a liver laceration, broken pelvis, and serious spinal injuries. His mother, Brittany Paul, described the crash as “a mom’s worst nightmare,” emphasizing the suddenness and severity of the impact. Easton is currently receiving treatment at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Arthur M. Blank Hospital.
These cases highlight the vulnerability of young people and the devastating consequences that can result from accidents. The incident in Quebec is particularly poignant, given the recreational context and the unexpected nature of the injury.
The investigation into the ski lift accident is ongoing, and authorities have not yet released any information regarding potential mechanical failures or safety protocols. Centre Vorlage has not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident, but is cooperating fully with investigators.
The loss of this young girl is a profound tragedy for her family and community. As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding the circumstances that led to this devastating event and preventing similar accidents from occurring in the future. The community is grappling with the shock and grief, and support services are being made available to those affected.
The frequency of serious injuries to young people underscores the importance of safety awareness and preventative measures in all aspects of life, from transportation to recreational activities. The cases of Bobby Mbuagbaw and Easton Lacewell, alongside this recent tragedy in Quebec, serve as stark reminders of the fragility of life and the need for constant vigilance.