Killian Gonzales, 6, suffered fatal injuries when a log fell from a makeshift driftwood structure at Little Squalicum Beach.
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A 6-year-old boy died Sunday, four days after a large driftwood log fell on him while he was playing at Little Squalicum Beach in Bellingham, according to his family and local news reports.
Killian Gonzales was near a fortlike structure made from driftwood on July 8 when one of the logs broke loose and struck him. The impact pinned the child against the ground and caused severe injuries. His family announced Sunday afternoon that he had died after several days of hospital treatment.
Killian was taken first to St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham before being flown to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Reports citing his family said he suffered multiple skull fractures and serious brain trauma. Medical teams monitored him as they assessed the extent of his injuries.
First responders performed CPR for about 20 minutes before restoring Killian’s pulse, according to an online fundraiser created by a family friend. Details about which agency led the emergency response and whether officials are conducting a formal review of the accident were not immediately available.
The driftwood structure was described as a makeshift fort or teepee built from logs already on the beach. Killian was playing nearby when a large piece shifted and fell. Authorities have not released information about who built the structure, how long it had been there or what caused the log to move.
Killian’s 10-year-old sister was present when the accident occurred, according to the family. His parents said the siblings were close and that she was struggling with the trauma of witnessing the incident.
In a statement issued after his death, Killian’s family thanked those who had supported them during his hospitalization. They described him as curious, affectionate and eager to include others.
“Killian was such a bright light,” the family said. “He had this infectious, deep belly laugh that made everyone around him smile.”
The family said he enjoyed outdoor adventures and searching for small creatures. “He was curious about everything and loved to learn,” the statement said. “He loved to give hugs and always made sure to include everyone around him so they didn’t feel left out.”
An online fundraiser that initially sought help with hospital, transportation and daily expenses was updated after Killian’s death to include funeral costs. The family said it was living through “unimaginable grief” and thanked community members for their messages and financial support.
No public agency had announced findings about the driftwood collapse as of Tuesday. Information about any inspection of the beach structure or possible removal of similar structures had not been released.
Author note: Last updated July 14, 2026.