McPherson, Kansas — A grieving father has shared an emotional tribute to his 6-year-old son, Cole Adrian, who was killed when a vehicle drove through a youth soccer game in Wichita. Remembering his son as a joyful child who loved everyone he met, Chris Adrian told mourners that his family misses their little boy more than words can explain.
Cole was one of two people killed in the October 17 incident at Stryker Sports Complex in Wichita. The crash also left nearly a dozen other people injured, turning a youth sporting event into a devastating tragedy for families and the local community.
During Cole’s funeral service on Monday, October 26, at McPherson Free Methodist Church in McPherson, his father spoke about the personality, kindness and happiness that made his son so special.
Father Remembers Cole as a Boy Who Loved Everyone
Chris Adrian described his son as “the best kid” and said Cole had a heart big enough for everyone. Speaking during the funeral service, he recalled how his son could quickly connect with people, whether they were young or old, friends or strangers.
“He always had a way of capturing the heart of every person he met—young and old, friends and strangers,” Chris told attendees.
He also remembered Cole’s love of playing, laughing and spending time with the people around him.
“He loved to play, loved to laugh. Most of all, he loved everyone,” his father said.
One of the memories Chris shared was his son’s habit of calling ordinary outings the best day ever. Even a simple trip to McDonald’s could make Cole excited enough to describe the entire day as something special.
“Cole would often tell us, ‘This was the best day ever,’ even on days when nothing really special happened. [We’d] go to McDonald’s —‘best day ever.’ That was just Cole. He found joy in the simplest things.”
Cole Adrian Was One of Two People Killed in Wichita Crash
Cole died in the October 17 incident at Stryker Sports Complex in Wichita, where a vehicle drove through a youth soccer game. The crash also claimed the life of 35-year-old Nicholas Schafer and injured nearly a dozen other people.
The incident prompted an investigation involving Wichita police, who worked to establish what happened before the vehicle entered the soccer field.
Investigators interviewed approximately 30 witnesses, along with the driver, who remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. Police also consulted with the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office as part of the investigation.
According to the police department, the 34-year-old driver was released pending the results of toxicology testing and a mechanical examination of the vehicle.
No charges had been filed at the time of the police statement, and investigators continued working to determine the circumstances that led to the crash.
Obituary Remembers His Smile and Contagious Laughter
Cole was a kindergarten student at Roosevelt Elementary School. His obituary described him as a lively child whose infectious smile and contagious laughter brought happiness to those around him.
“He was full of life, humor, and an unmistakable vibrancy that drew people to him,” the tribute read.
The obituary also highlighted his ability to make friends with people of different ages and his genuine interest in connecting with others. His family remembered him as a tremendous source of happiness at home, describing the joy he brought to his parents.
“Cole was a tremendous joy to his parents, who loved him beyond measure and took such delight in being his mom and dad,” the obituary continued.
It added that he filled their lives with laughter, happiness and a special kind of light that only he could bring.
Family Says Community Support Has Been Overwhelming
During the funeral service, Chris also spoke about the support his family had received following the tragedy.
He acknowledged that the family was struggling with the loss but expressed gratitude for the kindness and compassion shown by people in the community.
“The world would be a much brighter place if we had a little bit more of Cole’s heart. He loved life, he loved being with his family,” Chris said.
He also shared how difficult the days following the crash had been for everyone who loved Cole.
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“The support from this community has been overwhelming in the most beautiful way,” Chris added.
“We are very broken, we’re not okay, and we miss our little guy more than words could ever explain. But the incredible love that has surrounded our family has been truly special.”
Investigation Into Soccer Field Crash Continues
While Cole’s family and the community remember the young boy’s life, the investigation into the October 17 crash remains ongoing.
Police have not announced criminal charges in the case, and the results of the toxicology testing and vehicle examination were still pending in the information provided.
For Cole’s family, however, the loss goes far beyond the circumstances of the crash. They are remembering a little boy who found happiness in everyday moments, loved making friends and made ordinary days feel special.
His father’s words offered a glimpse into the personality of a child whose memory continues to mean so much to the people who knew him.
What stands out most from Cole’s father’s tribute is his son’s ability to find happiness in the simplest moments. Share your thoughts and send your messages of support to the family in the comments.
