Boy, 7, Dies After Falling Off SUV Without Driver Knowing He Was Onboard

"His papa didn't even know he was on the truck," Mitchell Holiday's mother said of the tragedy, adding, "Once he found out, he was devastated"

A 7-year-old boy died in Georgia after falling off of a vehicle that the driver, who is a relative, did not know the child was holding onto. 

On Saturday, Nov. 9, Bleckley County Sheriff Daniel Cape confirmed that the fatal accident took place at approximately 6:20 p.m. local time the night before. “Unfortunately, this accident resulted in the death of a juvenile child,” he said in a statement via Facebook. 

“I’d like to take this opportunity to publicly express my condolences to the family and friends of the deceased and ask that each of you reading this do the same,” Cape said. “As a community, this is a time to come together, mourn and support the family, not just today, but in the coming weeks and months, as this is not a burden to try to carry alone.”

Georgia State Patrol responded to the incident, and while Cape did not release the name of the victim, his aunt, Alexius Woodfaulk, identified him as Mitchell Holiday in a GoFundMe account created to raise funds for his funeral. 

The boy’s aunt said all donations would go to Pascal Memorial Funeral Home.

Related: 2-Year-Old Child Leaves Home After Parents Put Her to Bed, Then Gets Struck and Killed by Car

A single photo of him showed the child smiling at the camera, dressed in football gear — complete with padding and a helmet, with a teddy bear on his shirt.

Mitchell's mother, Cynthia Byrd, spoke with 13 WMAZ on Monday, Nov. 11, after a balloon release in his honor. The grieving parent explained how the accident unfolded. 

"They said that he was standing on the back of the truck and his papa didn't even know he was on the truck, so once he found out, he was devastated too," Byrd told the Cochran news station. 

The victim’s grandfather hadn’t known that Mitchell was on the back of his SUV but made the discovery after driving a short distance. 

Bleckley County Primary School, where Mitchell attended school, shared their condolences online, remembering the young boy as a “beautiful child.”

Related: Child Dies After Being 'Struck by a Tractor' at Halloween 'Haunted Hayride’ Event: 'Tragic Accident'

“We are heartbroken to share that we lost a beloved member of our school community. Our hearts go out to the family, friends and loved ones affected by this profound loss,” the school’s statement began.

They added that counselors would be available for any student or staff member who may need assistance during this time.

In the school's post was a photo of Mitchell smiling as he proudly held up his schoolwork. 

“We send our deepest condolences to the family and all who knew this beautiful child. We will remember his bright spirit, sweet nature and incredible work ethic. He will always be close to our hearts,” the school concluded. 

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

The post garnered more than 300 messages of support.

“Losing Mitchell is such a deep loss. He had the sweetest smile, one that could warm any heart and bring joy to everyone around him. His gentle nature and kind spirit were a true blessing, touching the lives of everyone he encountered. Though he’s no longer with us, his memory and that beautiful smile will forever be cherished and remembered in our hearts,” one person wrote, adding, “Until we all meet again, sweet boy!! We love you!!”

According to Sheriff Cape, “It is not believed that any charges will be filed at this point.”