For many Americans, July 4th is a time of celebration—fireworks, barbecues, parades, and cherished moments with family. However, for the Hill family and the town of Kaysville, Utah, the holiday carries a bittersweet meaning. It marks the anniversary of the devastating loss of their beloved “little princess,” 8-year-old Macie Hill, who tragically passed away during the city’s Independence Day parade on July 4, 2022.
Kaysville Honors Macie Hill’s Memory Two Years Later
Even two years after her passing, the Kaysville community continues to honor Macie’s memory. Every year, during the town’s annual July 4th parade, onlookers wear pink ribbons in her honor, and a banner bearing her name leads the parade. While many people still vividly remember that fateful day, others may not know the heartbreaking story behind Macie’s tragic accident. So, what exactly happened?
How Did Macie Hill Die? The Tragic July 4th Parade Accident
On July 4, 2022, Macie Hill was performing with her cheer squad, Patriot Cheer, on a parade float when disaster struck. According to reports from Fox 5, another vehicle in the parade, a Hummer, collided with the float carrying Macie and her teammates. First responders arrived quickly and transported Macie to Layton Parkway Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Eyewitnesses described the horrifying scene. Shawna Dennis, a parade attendee, recounted to Fox 13, “I don’t think people understood the seriousness of the situation at first. It was absolutely terrifying—I had never witnessed anything like it before in my life.
Shawna witnessed Macie being run over by a yellow Hummer, a moment that shocked everyone present. “I looked up and saw a little girl lying on the ground,” she recalled. “The rear trailer rolled right over her. I heard a woman frantically shouting at the driver, ‘Stop! Stop! You just ran over one of your own!'”
No Wrongdoing Found, but Safety Measures Were Strengthened
An investigation into Macie’s death concluded that there was no negligence or wrongdoing on the part of parade organizers or participants. Kaysville Police Chief Solomon Oberg stated in an email to KUTV 2News, “No shortcomings or mistakes by parade organizers or anyone else involved.”
The police report clarified that Macie had tried to retrieve candy from the ground near the trailer when the front tire rolled over her leg, pulling her under.
Despite no legal fault being found, Macie’s death prompted Kaysville officials to implement stricter parade safety measures. New rules introduced the following year included:
- Parade participants must walk behind floats rather than alongside them.
- No one is permitted to get on or off a float unless there is an emergency.
Kaysville Keeps Macie’s Memory Alive
In 2023, the town paid tribute to Macie by starting the parade with a banner in her honor. Many attendees and participants wore pink ribbons, her favorite color, to remember the vibrant young girl whose presence left a lasting impact.
Described by her family as “unique” with an “exuberant personality,” Macie’s spirit continues to be celebrated in the community. Her obituary painted a picture of a joyful, energetic child who brightened the lives of everyone around her.
A Community’s Outpouring of Support
Following Macie’s passing, friends of the Hill family launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs, medical bills, and grief counseling. The fundraiser exceeded expectations, raising nearly $120,000. In a heartfelt act of generosity, Macie’s family encouraged donors to contribute to the family of 13-year-old Paysley Boothe, who tragically passed away from cancer just one day after Macie.
During Macie’s memorial, over 1,000 Utah cheerleaders lined the streets in tribute, showcasing the profound impact she had on her community.
Remembering Macie Hill
As another July 4th approaches, we extend our deepest sympathies to the Hill family and all those who knew and loved Macie. While the holiday may forever be tinged with sorrow for them, her legacy of love, joy, and community spirit continues to shine.
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