Vigil planned for 7-year-old boy fatally struck by city bus in Hamilton

A vigil is scheduled for Friday evening to honour a seven-year-old boy who was struck and killed by an HSR bus in central Hamilton last week.

It will take place at 7:30 p.m. at J.C. Beemer Park, which the victim’s father says was Max’s favourite park.

“Me and Emily Simao would like to thank everyone for the overwhelming (in a good way) love and support you all have shown towards us and our lil Maxamoose and his family,” Chris Simao writes in a post on Facebook, “it really has helped.”

He adds that anyone is welcome to attend the vigil. Those planning to go are asked to bring a candle, glow stick or LED lights, as well as a non-perishable food item to donate to those who “may be feeling a different kind of pain this holiday season.”

READ MORE: Child killed after being struck by city bus in downtown Hamilton

Max and his mother had just got off a city bus shortly after 1 p.m. on Dec. 11 when he slipped and was run over by the bus going at a low rate of speed.

Witness statements and video of the scene led Hamilton police to conclude Friday that Max’s death was not the result of the actions of the bus driver or his caregiver.

Max — who is being remembered as a “bright little boy” — leaves behind three siblings and two parents.

A family friend launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Max’s grieving family.

READ MORE: Driver, caregiver not at fault in HSR bus collision that killed 7-year-old: police