An 8-year-old boy from Waukee died during Thanksgiving break after part of a concrete statue fell on him at an Arizona resort.
Phoenix firefighters responded to the luxury hotel around 9 a.m. Nov. 27 after receiving reports of an injured child at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix. The 8-year-old, identified as Luke William Linnett, was rushed to the hospital where he died the next day “surrounded by the love his family,” his obituary said.
“Though his life was short, his impact was immeasurable, leaving a void in our hearts that will never be filled,” it said.
Capt. Todd Keller with the Phoenix Fire Department said Luke suffered a head injury.
An uncle said the family will not comment.
Luke was a student at Walnut Hills Elementary in Urbandale, part of the Waukee Community School District, where his teachers described him as “an energetic third grader with a big heart and an even bigger sense of humor,” his obituary said.
“Luke was a cherished member of our community, and his loss has been profoundly felt by all,” Waukee Community School District spokesperson Kayla Choate said in an email.
His obituary described him as a friend to many, who worked to ensure football games at recess were “fair and that everyone had a chance to shine with great plays.” Luke participated in football, basketball and baseball, started writing his own music, and liked math. If he wasn’t playing with his teams, he could be found practicing at home.
“Luke was a ‘team-first’ player, quick to recognize others’ strengths and offer encouragement both on and off the field. He didn’t shy away from celebrating his own great shots-or playfully teasing his coaches about how bad theirs were,” the obituary said.
The district’s grief response team provided support to students and staff with counselors from across the district at Walnut Hills Elementary, Choate said.
“Our thoughts continue to be with the family as they cope with this heartbreaking loss,” she said.
It is unknown what caused the statue to fall and whether Luke was with a parent or guardian at the time. Officials said foul play was not involved.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the family’s loss and extend our heartfelt condolences,” the Arizona Biltmore said in a statement shared with the Arizona Republic on Dec. 4. “We wish them peace and respect their right to privacy during this difficult time. Our commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for our guests is paramount and we continue to cooperate fully with all authorities investigating this incident.”
Karen Bartunek with the Arizona Republic contributed to this story.
José Mendiola is a breaking news reporter for the Register. Reach him at jmendiola@dmreg.com or follow him on X @mendiola_news.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: 8-year-old Waukee boy dies after statue fell on him at Arizona resort