Tyler Waller - "Remembering Those Who Rode"

[Motodad393]

Motocross accident victim Tyler Waller, 7, remembered as 'greatest kid'

by Ron Fonger and Shannon Murphy | The Flint Journal Tuesday April 01, 2008

Oakland Twp -- The father of the 7-year-old boy who died Monday after a dirt bike crash in Fenton Township said his son was an experienced rider and he isn't sure what caused the boy's sudden, fatal crash.

Tyler Waller, a second-grader at Hamilton-Parsons Elementary School in the Romeo School District, died from internal injuries after he crashed into a steel pole at Fenton Indoor Motocross in Fenton Township.

"I don't know if his throttle stuck or what," said David Waller, 45. "I assumed he got the wind knocked out of him. He said, 'My stomach hurts.' Then he started to fall asleep. He started to fade away."

David Waller said his son rode a 50cc Cobra cycle, powered by racing fuel, and said his son was an experienced rider despite his young age.

Tyler rode a small Honda cycle when he was less than 3 years old and competed statewide against other children in his age group.

David Waller said he also rode dirt bikes growing up and suffered injuries but never suspected his son's life was in danger.
"I've had my share of broken bones," he said. "Everybody thinks it's dangerous, but it's a broken bones and bruising sport --Â not a death sport."

David Waller said he didn't see his son's accident but was told that he appeared too be traveling far too fast when he crashed.

He said the cycle left the track and hit the pole, which he believes should have been covered by a buffer.
The ensuing long wait for a transport ambulance was frustrating because Tyler talked to his parents and answered questions.

The Fenton Indoor Motocross building in Fenton Township was the scene of an accident that claimed the life of 7-year-old Tyler Waller.

Emergency officials and the ambulance company --Â Regional EMS --Â have disagreed about exactly how long it took the ambulance to arrive. The company claims it took "slightly less than 19 minutes" to respond because the first vehicle it dispatched broke down on the way.

Genesee County 911 and Sheriff Robert J. Pickell say it took 22 minutes.
Family members aren't sure whether a quicker response could have made a difference, but Marketa Waller said her son was alert, answering questions initially.

Eventually, she said she "went out screaming for the ambulance" because she was frustrated it had not yet arrived.
"He was totally responsive," she said. "He knew his name. He knew where he was going on a field trip. He knew where he was."

Marketa Waller, 34, said her son was "the greatest kid in the world."

"He was an awesome little boy," she said. "He was friends with everybody."

The Fenton Indoor Motocross track closed early Monday night after staff learned of Tyler's death, said General Manager Tommy Barron.

The track reopened Tuesday, and a staff minister went to the hospital to speak with the family. Staff and riders at the facility sent their condolences, he said.

"This is something that normally doesn't happen," Barron said. "There's bumps and bruises, but nothing like this."

Barron said riders are required to wear helmets, boots, gloves and goggles, all of which Waller had on when he crashed.

Rider Bill Foley, 45, of Fenton Township said it's sad to hear of another rider's death -- especially someone so young.

"It's a terrible thing. No one wants to see anyone get hurt," he said. [end article]


Tyler Waller will not be forgotten! May he "rest in eternal peace" and may his family somehow find comfort during the days that follow a tragedy like this.

It was once said, "Rather than mourn the absence of the flame, let us celebrate how brightly it shined." May these words resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved Tyler.

Sincerely & in sympathy,

Mike Berg
"Motodad393"

[DRGSin393]

What an unimaginable tragedy! Our thoughts and prayers to the family!

[MotoMan]

Oh man, thats horrible.

Prayers go out to the family on this end as well.

[Motodad393]

To the Waller Family & Friends:

At times like these it is most difficult to find comfort and solace. You may likely experience feelings and emotions that you never knew could exist. I remember all to well the feeling and reality that set in as the days become months and the months become years. Please know that as you move forward with your lives you are not alone in your journey. Sadly, there are many parents and siblings who are “learning how to live” all over again.

As I reflect back on my life since Garrett died I made many mistakes, not intentionally but they were the result of pain I experienced as I unknowingly languished in the “valley overshadowed by death.” If there is anything that I can personally do for you – please let me know. Sometimes it just helps to just talk to someone who knows “exactly how you feel.”

One thing I am extremely confident of and this is that the prayers of the “Off-Road Family” are very powerful and the people are simply beyond description. They are without a doubt the most wonderful people I have ever met in my 50+ years of life! We are here for you.

Sincerely,
Mike, Suzette & Shannon Berg

[char393]

I am truly sorry for the Waller family's loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to them.

[bansheeduster]

Oh wow this is very sad to hear! My prayers to the family of Tyler Waller. I only hope things get better for the family because that truly is a hard thing to deal with as i can only imagine.

Sinserely,
Troy.

[OLDMXRACER 393]

+ Godspeed. +

[mxer120]

I lost my best friend when I was 8....

God Speed, and good luck in heaven little man!

The family is in my prayers.

this just happens entirely to much!

[MrsTwister393]

What an awful loss, thoughts and prayers to the family

[b-bike393]

Looking at Tylers picture leaves me feeling hollow.

The Walker family will be in my prayers.

[Keetoman393]

You will be remembered, Tyler. Godspeed young man.

[Blitz393]

i really feel for the family, and all his friends in school. this is a terrible tragedy, but we know he doesn't hurt now.

Rob

[indycat007]

From My Heart as a best Freind , Dave , I have been one of you best freinds from a very young age , over 35 + Years , From us racing WKA Karts to the first day you told me that Tyler Had a new custom bike you made for him, When he was only 2 1/2 years old , Tyler was and alway will be a super star !!! , Even just chilling out watching Tv he was the best kid Ever !!! He made my self and Dawn always put a big smile on our face , God bless & God Speed Tyler , We will miss you !!!!!!!


Ross & Dawn

[Flash393]

My hearth just sunk as I read this, sorry I miss this the other day. You know when you login in to the forum this is the last thing you expect to see. My prayers go out to Tyler's family. What terrible lose this is...

[popfuhre393]

Godspeed little guy! My prayers go out to the Waller Family.

[Motodad393]

I had the privilege of speaking with Tyler's Mom and Dad earlier today. I am humbled by how nice they are. I wonder why do bad things happen to such good people.

When I speak with "parents" who loose a child it can be challenging for me because I remember so vividly how it feels to be in the position they now face. Mr. Waller and I share similiar experiences involving the accident of our sons. I only hope and pray that as the days become months and the months become years that they find the strength to move through the valley in which they now stand. Mr. and Mrs. Waller are super people who simply love being parents.

Please ATM keep the Waller family in your prayers and thougths. Both of our sons are now "riding and roosting" in the heavens!

Mr. and Mrs. Waller you are not alone. We stand with you.

[kenyz]

I read this a few days ago and as someone stated above...my heart sank. I couldn't really think of anything to say then but I will now before I let this linger too long. 7 is far too young to be gone from this earth and my heart goes out to Tyler's family. Godspeed little dude.

[Florida 393]

Prayers from Florida for Tyler's family. Godspeed Tyler.

Bill