5-year-old dies in motocross tragedy

EPHRATA - A day of fun at the races turned tragic last Saturday evening, Aug. 20, when a motocross accident left a 5-year-old boy dead at the Ephrata Raceway Park.

According to Grant County Undersheriff Dave Ponozzo, the accident occurred around 6:30 p.m. A motocyle ridden by John J. Smith, 29, of East Wenatchee went out of control when rider and bike became separated. It struck Kaiden R. Henley, East Wenatchee, who was seated on a bicycle in the infield.

According to Ponozzo, Grant County Fire District No. 13 firefighters, off-duty emergency responders who were at the track and American Medical Reponse paramedics tried to help Kaiden.

Kaiden's injuries were too severe, Ponozzo said. He died Saturday night at Columbia Basin Hospital in Ephrata.

"My heart goes out to Kaiden's family," Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones said. "My prayers are with them all, and I wish them the strength to endure this incredible loss."

Smith was injured but declined transport to a hospital.

Kaiden's death appears to be the result of a "terrible accident," and criminal charges are unlikely to be filed, Ponozzo said.

- Staff report