Community asked to rally around young boy hospitalized after tragic accident

Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 1:00 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

A 5-year-old LaPaz boy is in a pediatric intensive care unit after a large toolbox fell on him Monday afternoon, prompting a multi-agency emergency response and a Medflight airlift to a Fort Wayne hospital.

According to the Marshall County Sheriff's Department, 911 dispatchers received a medical emergency call at approximately 4:00 p.m. on Monday, March 31. The incident occurred at a residence located in the 12,000 block of U.S. 6 in LaPaz.

A statement released by the child's extended family explained that the young boy was attempting to retrieve an item from the top drawer of a large, heavy toolbox when the unit tipped over, trapping him underneath.

First responders from LaPaz Fire and EMS, the Marshall County Sheriff's Department, and the Plymouth Police Department quickly arrived at the scene to assist. Due to the severe nature of the injuries, a Medflight helicopter was requested. Emergency personnel temporarily shut down a section of U.S. 6 to establish a safe landing zone before airlifting the child to Fort Wayne for specialized medical treatment.

The boy is currently receiving care in the pediatric ICU, where he remains sedated and on a ventilator. Family members report that he sustained a broken wrist, which is expected to require surgery in the coming days. Miraculously, his skull was not fractured. The medical team is currently working to address other underlying issues with the hope of safely removing him from the ventilator soon.

The child’s parents have taken time off from work to remain by his side during this critical time. To help alleviate the mounting financial strain of medical bills, travel, and daily living expenses, the family's extended network is appealing to the public for assistance.

Above all, the family is asking the community to "flood heaven with a wave of prayer" for Waylon's complete healing.

Community members wishing to support the family financially during the recovery process can send donations directly to his family via: