Family friend in plea for action following Clinton Pringle’s death

Monday 04 July 2016

A friend of three-year-old Clinton Pringle’s family has called for urgent safety measures to be introduced in the area around Millennium Town Park, where the fatal accident happened last Monday.

Nicola McAteer posted a message on social media calling for action, as well as paying tribute to well-wishers who have left flowers in memory of the little boy at the scene of the incident.

She said: “Something needs to be done immediately to prevent this happening again. Hopefully we can highlight the immediate danger here. This tragic accident should never have happened. 

“The sun is shining, but it's such a sad day here in Jersey. I've just been down to lay some flowers for little Clinton who tragically was taken from this world far too soon. Some lovely tributes, flowers and cuddly toys laid for this special little three year old.

“Clinton's mum works with my sister in Scotland, and this is another reason why I am so passionate about making this statement and making this area safer! This tragedy could happen to any of us. 

“Something needs to be done immediately with the layout of this park. With summer holidays fast approaching in jersey and some UK schools already holidaying here, we must all join together and ensure safer measures are put in place immediately.

“I'm not sure how to proceed, but know that many, many of my friends that are reading this post and sharing this post right now can help. I'm desperate for this to never happen again.”

Clinton’s father, Michael Pringle issued a statement on Friday, saying: “My wife Stacey and I, along with our extended family and friends – many of whom have travelled to Southampton to be by Clinton’s side during his battle for life – are absolutely devastated by his untimely death.

“Anyone who was privileged enough to spend any time with him will appreciate how special he was to us all.

"It is so difficult to come to terms with the fact that our three-year-old, on holiday visiting family, has been killed while about to enter a park in Jersey. We would like to thank the medical staff in both Jersey and Southampton for trying everything in their power to keep him with us. Clinton was an incredibly strong character and his death will leave a gaping hole in the lives and hearts of so many.”

An online campaign has already raised over £3,000 towards funeral costs for the Pringle family, who hail from the Glasgow suburb of Chryston - with a target of £5,000.   

Officers have taken statements from a number of witnesses to the crash, which happened about 4 pm on Monday near the Millennium Town Park, but would like anyone who left the scene before speaking to the police to call the station on 612612.

Police are also requesting that anyone who has premises in the area with CCTV cameras to get in touch so footage can be viewed to see if it assists with the investigation.

A 38-year-old woman was arrested for traffic offences after the collision with the toddler and has since been released on bail.

The police are also offering guidance for anyone traumatised by the accident, saying: "A range of support is available for anyone who may have been distressed as a result of this incident. GPs will provide support on emotional health and wellbeing concerns, while other options include the Youth Enquiry Service, school-based counsellors, the Samaritans and – in cases of appropriate seriousness – the Emergency Department at Jersey General Hospital.”