Family Broken after Son, 12, Dies in Crash While Hanging Out with His Three Best Friends

Four best friends hoped to have an amazing evening riding an ATV in South Carolina. But sadly, their fun activity would lead to the hospitalization of the foursome and, eventually, the death of one.

Bereavement is an inevitable part of life that everyone will experience at some point. However, losing a loved one, especially a child, remains one of the most painful experiences anyone can endure. The grief is intense, the mourning process harder to navigate, and the trauma more acute.

Unfortunately, the Phillips family from South Carolina knows this firsthand as they recently had to mourn following the demise of their 12-year-old family member.

The young boy and sixth grader, identified as Hagen Phillips, lost his life in one of the most tragic ways, leaving his family in intense pain. Here are the details of the whole story.

Details of the ATV Accident

October 9, 2022, began as a normal day for Hagen and his three friends, but sadly, it would end with the foursome fighting for their lives in the hospital.

On that fateful day, the four friends were riding an ATV along Old Lowndesville Highway, South Carolina, and having the best time when the unthinkable happened.

At about 4:53 p.m., the four-wheeler drove through the intersection of Cemetery Road and the Highway, crashing into a pickup truck.

The effect of the accident left the foursome, all students of Starr-Iva Middle School, with severe injuries. Immediately, they were rushed to the hospital to receive adequate treatment.

Afterward, a representative for the family, Crystal Rich, started a GoFundMe to raise money for Hagen's medical bills. In a note shared on the page, Rich noted that the Phillips family needed assistance as Hagen's parents had been at the hospital and could not work.

In addition, Rich mentioned that Hagen had six siblings, whom his parents needed to care for, hence the need for assistance.

Thankfully, well-meaning individuals were touched by the story and donated to the cause. But unfortunately, their donations could not prevent the sixth grader's demise.

Hagen's Demise & Thoughts about the Tragic Occurrence

After being on a ventilator for days, the12-year-old passed away from his injuries on October 12, 2022. Following his demise, Hagen's grandmother, Lisa Brown Phillips, took to Facebook to announce the tragic news. She wrote:

"Our family didn't get the miracle we were hoping for. Our precious Hagen Michael went to be with the lord. We ask that you respect our family at this time and just pray for us all."

Besides the Phillips family, the educators at Starr-Iva Middle School felt terrible about Hagen's demise. In a statement, Adam Coats, the principal at the school, confessed that everyone was heartbroken.

According to him, Hagen was an amazing child that always radiated joy. He made people laugh, had so much positive energy, and was loved by many due to his impact on their lives. Coats further noted:

"His friends loved him, and even those who didn't know him but got to know him loved as well."

Similarly, Anderson District 3, the district overseeing Hagen's school, was not left out. In a statement, the district made it known that the young boy's death was a sad occurrence.

They sent their prayers and well wishes to the deceased's family and friends, noting that the crisis team would help by providing counseling, assistance, and support.

Ultimately, Hagen will always be remembered as a happy, contented, and sweet child who loved outdoor activities like fishing.

His friend, Leia Purdy, says Hagen was the best friend she ever had, and she will miss him. She also thanks him for teaching her how to fish and always looking out for her. May his soul rest in peace.