6-year-old boy killed by falling driftwood at Bellingham, WA beach

Published July 13, 2026 1:28 PM PDT

A six-year-old boy died after being struck by a massive piece of driftwood on a beach in Bellingham, Washington.

FOX 13 Seattle previously reported that the child, Killian, was at the beach with his family last week. He was playing near a makeshift teepee structure made from driftwood, when a log broke loose, fell and struck the back of his head, pinning him to the ground and causing severe trauma.

The incident resulted in multiple skull fractures and extensive damage to the back of his brain.

Killian's family announced that he died of his injuries on Sunday.

Killian and his sister (left) and Killian in the hospital recovering from the driftwood accident

What they're saying:

Killian's family issued the following statement after his passing:

"Thank you to everyone who has supported us over these last 5 days. We're living through unimaginable grief. Killian was such a bright light. He had this infectious, deep belly laugh that made everyone around him smile. He loved to adventure outside and all the little creatures he would find there. He was curious about everything and loved to learn. He loved to give hugs and always made sure to include everyone around him so they didn't feel left out."

Killian’s 10-year-old sister was present when the accident occurred. His parents noted that she is deeply distraught and struggling with the trauma, as the two siblings are very close.

Killian's family started an online fundraiser initially to cover hospital fees, but it will now also help cover funeral expenses.

MORE NEWS FROM FOX 13 SEATTLE

6-year-old Bellingham, WA boy dies from injuries after beach driftwood accident

Grandmother thwarts Pike Place kidnapping, Seattle police make arrest

'Transfer Fire' near Lake Chelan, WA hospital prompts evacuation notices

Here's where WA wildfires are currently burning

Seattle office vacancy crisis shifts tax burden onto homeowners

Thurston County, WA couple desperate to find dog after Rover sitter vanishes

Husband of pregnant wife killed in Seattle sues King County homeless authority

To get the best local news, weather and sports in Seattle for free, sign up for the daily FOX Seattle Newsletter.

Download the free FOX LOCAL app for mobile in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for live Seattle news, top stories, weather updates and more local and national news.

The Source: Information in this story comes from Killian's family, as well as previous coverage from FOX 13 Seattle.

BellinghamNews