A 13-year-old boy was flown to a hospital after being struck by a vehicle on Highway 77 in Marietta, according to family members and police.

Marietta police said the boy, identified by family as Kaiden Haymes, was struck near the Dollar General.

Family members said Kaiden is an athlete, an active church member and interprets for his mother, who is deaf.

“When he sees somebody that needs help, he’ll be right there. And he’s there to interpret for his mom. He loves church and he just, the all-around American boy,” family members said.

Crash happened Wednesday afternoon
Family members said Kaiden and his friends were crossing Highway 77 near the Dollar General on Wednesday afternoon when a car struck him, knocking him unconscious.

Family members said they were driving by Interstate 35 and saw an ambulance at Marietta hospital.

“We happened to be going by I-35 and saw the ambulance was still at Marietta Hospital. And so we turned around and went back. And they told us that the helicopter was going to land there,” family members said.

Family members said Kaiden’s condition was severe enough that he was flown to Dallas, where doctors monitored bleeding on the brain and a skull fracture. Family members said he also has a broken nose.

“I got to talk to him and he was very happy to see me and he was very confused and didn’t know where he was at, didn’t know what had happened and why he was there,” family members said.

Kaiden went into surgery Thursday afternoon, and family members said it went well.

“We just need lots of prayer and prayers are working continue with all your prayers, please. Just your love and support. We can surely use it right now. And Kaiden loves all of the Love County community. We’re a strong community and we stand together,” family members said.

Police investigation continues
Marietta police are still interviewing witnesses. Police said footage shows speed was not a factor and there is no evidence to support charges against the driver.
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