A 13-year-old boy died on Wednesday after losing control of a buggy and falling into the lagoon in Alifu Dhaalu Hangnaameedhoo.

A resident of the island told Mihaaru News that the boy, who had a disability, had gone to the harbor with his grandfather when the incident occurred.

According to the resident, the child unexpectedly got into a buggy parked at the harbor and started the vehicle.

"He was a child with special needs. Whenever he saw a motorcycle or buggy, he would try to get on it. A family member was usually nearby and they took great care of him," the resident said. 

The resident said people at the harbor attempted to stop the child after he started the buggy, but he appeared to panic, accelerated suddenly and drove into the lagoon. 

The boy is believed to have sustained serious head injuries after striking a boat before entering the water, according to the resident.

He was taken to the island's health centre, where he later passed away while receiving treatment.

The funeral was held at 12 am after the necessary examinations and samples were taken as part of the investigation.

The Maldives Police Service said officers remain at the scene and the incident is under investigation.

Police said further information will be released after the scene has been processed and investigators have completed the initial stages of the inquiry.