Parents: Boy Killed In ATV Accident Loved Outdoors

LEBANON, Ind. -- The family of a 13-year-old boy killed Saturday in an all-terrain vehicle accident spoke reflectively Sunday of their son's love for the outdoors.

Brayton Hiland (pictured) died when the ATV he was driving flipped over on him near county roads 625 South and 425 West on Saturday.

Police said Hiland was driving in the ditch next to the road, as he had been trained to do. Officers said snow and some ice underneath might have caused the ATV to flip, 6News' Cheryl Jackson reported.

Hiland's mother, Christine Hiland, was working when she was told that Brayton had been in an accident and that a passerby found him with the four-wheeler on top of him.

"I just thought maybe he had some scratches and bruises," Christine Hiland said. "I never dreamed when I got there he'd be dead."

Brayton's parents said the boy with rosy cheeks loved life so much that sometimes he couldn't wait for the sun to come up. He liked to go fishing in the lake behind their house and then walk to his grandmother's house for breakfast.

"You never know. I just hope people don't take their children for granted," said Danny Hiland.

As friends came to the Hiland home to comfort the family, everyone was stunned that the boy who had so much fun was gone.

Brayton had been riding ATVs since age 3, his parents said. His parents and older brother said they already know what they miss most -- his smile.

"Protect your kids, but they have got to live life," Danny Hiland said.

The accident happened about a half-mile from Hiland's home, police said. Funeral arrangements are pending.