Safety Upgrades at Woodstock Racetrack
Authorities have installed about 130 meters of new chain-link fencing along a key section of Connell Park Raceway in Woodstock, New Brunswick. The upgrade targets the area near the grandstand where three-year-old Gunnar Dickison suffered a fatal head injury from a starting gate last June.
Tragic Incident During Harness Race
The accident occurred on June 14, 2025, the opening day of the harness racing season. Video footage shows Gunnar leaning over the top railing of the wooden fence in front of the grandstand as the pace truck pulled the metal starting gate past spectators. Other onlookers pulled back just before impact, but Gunnar died later that day in hospital.
Tammey McLean, a longtime spectator and local resident, captured video from a hill opposite the grandstand. “I think that safety-wise, it was important to do it,” she said. As an amateur historian, McLean recalls the wooden fence stood since the track opened in 1967, serving generations of racegoers.
“What happened that day around here will never be forgotten. Anything that can help to prevent something like that from happening again, I’m all for it,” McLean stated.
Town Implements Safety Review and New Fencing
The Town of Woodstock owns the raceway. Days after the incident, Mayor Trina Jones announced a safety review. On July 24, 2025, council accepted the review and directed staff to coordinate with the Woodstock Driving Club, the facility’s lessee, to resume races after August 3. A temporary portable metal fence went up alongside the wooden one, complete with warning signs.
Council approved the permanent 2.4-meter-high chain-link fence on August 12, 2025, at a cost of $39,411 including taxes. The upgrade replaces the old wooden barrier, which primarily suited harness racing. Town clerk Christine Jewett explained that council shifted fence maintenance responsibility from the Woodstock Driving Club.
“That change provided the first opportunity for Council to independently determine the most appropriate type of fencing for the facility, taking into account not only harness racing, but the full range of events hosted at grounds,” Jewett said. “Upgrading to a full eight-foot perimeter fence enhances overall safety and security for all events.”
Recently, council authorized a tender for additional perimeter fencing around the track, estimated at $115,000.
Investigation Finds No Criminal Charges
Woodstock Police investigated the death and determined insufficient grounds for criminal charges. New Brunswick Public Prosecution Services director Brian Munn agreed after reviewing evidence, including incident video and witness statements.
“The reviewing prosecutor determined that there was no reasonable prospect of conviction on any criminal charges related to this incident,” Munn stated. “Gunnar Dickison’s death was tragic, but there was no criminal element to the child’s death.”
The Coroner’s Office continues its probe, with spokesperson Jadesola Emmanuel noting it remains too early to decide on an inquest.
