ATV Accident Claims Life of 8-Year-Old Male

On August 30, 2025, at approximately 6:51 p.m., deputies from the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the intersection of U.S. Highway 89 and Hughesville Road in Cascade County to assist in the investigation of an ATV accident involving an 8-year-old male. The incident occurred in Judith Basin County, approximately one-half mile from Dry Fork Belt Creek Road on Butcher Knife Divide. The child was transported to Cascade County to facilitate medical intervention. According to a press release, the initial reports indicated that the 8-year-old was operating the ATV as the sole occupant. He and another juvenile had advanced ahead of their family while riding on the roadway. Upon approaching a corner, the child's father discovered his son unresponsive on the ground. Sgt. Sanders of the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office was flagged down and transported both the child and his father in his patrol vehicle to meet medical personnel at the intersection of Hughesville Road and U.S. Highway 89. According to the release, despite more than 30 minutes of lifesaving efforts by Sgt. Sanders and members of the Belt Rural Fire Department, the child was pronounced deceased at approximately 7:51 p.m. Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter and detectives from the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the scene at 9:34 p.m. to assist with documentation and coordination of the response. The child's helmet was recovered and exhibited significant damage. Given the victim’s age and the circumstances of this tragic event, an autopsy has been requested. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of this 8-year-old boy who tragically lost his life," stated Sheriff Slaughter in the press release. "We can confirm that he was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. However, this heartbreaking incident is a reminder of how dangerous ATV riding can be for young children. We ask all families to take extra caution when recreating in our wilderness areas and operating ATVs or similar equipment." This investigation is being conducted as a mutual aid request from Judith Basin County Sheriff Hayes, who has solicited assistance from the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division and requested that Cascade County assume the role of coroner. The investigation also involves the Montana Highway Patrol, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Judith Basin County Sheriff’s Office. At this time, the identity of the juvenile is not being released pending the coroner’s investigation. More information will be posted in The Great Falls Gazette when it becomes available.