Residents of Pronoken in Grand Kru County Electoral District #1 are expressing concern following a heartbreaking accident that left a 9-year-old boy with a serious foot injury after a cutlass incident involving another child.
The victim, identified as CJ, was reportedly injured on Tuesday afternoon around 1:00 PM while in the yard with 13-year-old Jayce Boye.
According to accounts from community members, Jayce had been using a cutlass at the time and cautioned the younger boy to keep his distance. Witnesses said CJ initially moved away but later returned unexpectedly while the cutlass was still raised, resulting in a severe cut to his foot.
Residents described the incident as purely accidental, stressing that there was no intention to harm the child.
Following the incident, members of the Child Welfare and Protection Forum of Liberia (CWFL) quickly intervened and transported the injured boy to a nearby clinic, where he is currently undergoing treatment.
The unfortunate event has sparked fresh conversations within the community about child safety, supervision, and the dangers associated with allowing children near sharp farming tools and other hazardous objects commonly used in rural areas.
Eyewitnesses also recounted the emotional aftermath of the incident, revealing that Jayce Boye became visibly distressed and broke down in tears shortly after the accident. According to residents, the teenager repeatedly stated that he never intended to hurt CJ.
Community leaders and residents are now urging parents and guardians to exercise greater caution and ensure children are properly supervised around dangerous equipment to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
