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Yes Allen I agree, it is a tragedy.
My condolences go out to the family.
I hate to start sterotyping here but you know how I do, if it walks like a duck, I call it a duck.
It has been my experience to notice that most of the people who own these vehicles live in trailers, in the country, and hunt alot. Can I go as far as to say REDNECK? Well there I said it. I sure as hell have been called redneck enough in these blogs, so now it's my turn to define what one REALLY is. :)
Its time to wake up people.. dont put your little kids on ATV's and think, oh how cute.
Maybe it's your culture that makes you do this, I do not know. I just wish you didn't do it.
I am sure the parents wish they didn't do it.

As harsh as Lilly's words are, and as harsh as public opinion on this issue is, and as harsh as courts or law enforcement may be with respect to this particular incident, it all pales in comparison to what this father must be feeling. I believe the punishment should fit the crime but I also feel that this man will punish himself to a greater degree than any government can, for his moment of stupidity. Yes, it was a stupid act. But he will pay dearly for it. He has, as a result, a life sentence. My heart breaks for the family. I'm not about to kick them while they are down.

My words were a bit harsh, I admit that but
I do feel badly for the parents of this kid.
Don't forget that. Lilly has compassion for people, but Lilly also "thinks out loud".

There are personal tragedies on these vehicles all the time. I believe it was a couple of months ago that a boy in Wilkesboro crushed his brother by pinning him against the wall of their garage when an ATV kicked into gear.

It is tragic, I agree.

I may sound a little like Paul here, but is it possible to legislate good ol' common sense? I don't think a law about ATV usage will keep anyone from doing what they want with them.

A 5-year old has NO business on an ATV, go-cart, riding lawnmower or anything else with an engine.

Personally, I feel that NO child under the age of 12 is mature enough mentally or physically to ride any of these contraptions.

amen "truth". Once again, you've said it how it is.

You can't legislate common sense but maybe you can encourage responsible behavior by creating greater awareness -- and creating consequences for poor and reckless judgment.
My condolences also are with the family. But how many young lives need to end before people realize the inherent danger these vehicles pose?

From a so-called "redneck":

I live in a semi-rural area. My 9-year old son has ridden a two-wheeled dirt bike for 3-years and is fully skilled with a youth ATV (or "contraption" as noted above) To state that no child under the age of 12 should operate anything motorized is absolutely ludicrous! All children have different abilities and with proper instruction it should be up to the parent to decide what their children are capable of and control that activity.

To apply blanket laws to legilate common sense is a violation of my personal freedoms.

Was the 5-year old above operating a full size or non-governed ATV? likely... The father should be charged with negligence if the child was operating something he wasn't capable of.

Duh, I'll just go back to my trailer and let the smarter people who live in the city tell me what's best for me and my family.....