Local

Mother of 3-year-old killed at Hog Waller in 2011 speaks after weekend death

PUTNAM COUNTY, Fla. — Ocala mother Mildred Teitloff is demanding new safety changes at a Putnam County all-terrain vehicle park following the weekend death of a young father on the park’s property.

Action News Jax reported Saturday when William Lemire died at Hog Waller Mud Bog.

TRENDING: 

Teitloff said her son died after being run over by a family member on the property in 2011.

Since then, Teitloff has been pushing for new safety improvements at the park.

The Florida Highway Patrol told Action News Jax its investigation is ongoing, and it is working to determine whether alcohol played a role in this weekend’s crash.

“My son was killed there by my sister,” said Teitloff.

Teitloff spoke only to Action News Jax reporter Ryan Nelson on Monday.

She said her 3-year-old son, Landon Teitloff, died one day after his third birthday on December 31, 2011.

“They didn’t see my son playing in the mud and ran him over, and completely crushed his whole body," said Teitloff.

STAY UPDATED: Download the Action News Jax app for live updates on breaking stories

Download WJAX Apps

In April Action News Jax also reported on a head-on crash at the park.

Two people were taken to the hospital, and one patient was in critical condition.

The FHP report said it’s “unknown” if alcohol played a role in Lemire’s death, but Teitloff said it did play a role in her son’s death nearly eight years ago.

She said that’s why she’s demanding park management ban alcohol and set age restrictions.

Nelson called Hog Waller Mug Bog and left a voicemail. He also sent a text message, hoping to communicate with someone.

Action News Jax is still waiting for a response.

Nelson went to Hog Waller’s website for more information on its policies as it relates to Teitloff’s safety concerns.

The site shows kids can participate after parents or guardians sign a release, and helmets are required for kids who are 15 years old or younger.

About alcohol, the site says "You can bring alcohol into Hog Waller, however, all Florida laws pertaining to alcohol must be followed at all times."

Teitloff told Nelson she wants the park’s rules to change because she believes doing so could prevent another tragedy there.

“Why does all this keep happening?” she said. “What are you doing to prevent more deaths or injuries?”

We’ll continue to follow up with Hog Waller Mud Bog for reaction to this weekend’s incident and keep asking if any changes will be made.