Christian Maxon

Marshalltown community members are raising money for a family coping with the loss of their 8-year-old son who died in an accident.

Christian Maxon, a Franklin Elementary School second grader, died from injuries after being hit by a vehicle near the school building Wednesday. Marilyn Diggins, 71, was identified as the driver. The investigation into the crash continues, and Marshalltown Police Capt. Brian Batterson said police are looking at all factors as a result of the crash.

“We are requesting funds to assist them with making necessary arrangements as well as to provide support for their two other children during this trying time,” a GoFundMe fundraising page reads.

Jeff Linton’s State Farm office, 207 E. Church St., is also raising money for the family. Checks made payable to his mother Brittany Maxon can be mailed to or brought into the office. Linton said he will match the first $250 raised.

Christian was on his way home from school when the crash occurred. He was crossing Main Street when he was struck by Diggins’ vehicle turning east onto Main Street from the 10 block of South 13th Street. He was reported to be in critical condition right after the accident. He was taken to UnityPoint Health-Marshalltown and was later flown to Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines where he later died.

Marshalltown Schools released a statement on the death Thursday morning.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Franklin Elementary School second grade student Christian Maxon following a tragic accident after school Wednesday. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Christian’s family and others who knew the beloved student. We have additional counselors available at Franklin starting on Thursday to serve those in need,” the district statement read.

The fundraising page is called “Benefit for Christian Maxon” and can be accessed at https://www.gofundme.com/christianmaxon. The page has a goal of raising $15,000.