Boy killed in parade accident remembered at 2 Friday vigils: ‘He was a light'

Yahoo

31-05-2025

NORTH CANTON, Ohio (WJW) – Hundreds of grieving neighbors, family members and friends gathered to remember 13-year-old Matthew Schultz at two vigils Friday night.
The first event was a private rosary service held at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church in Green because Matthew was an altar server and loved his faith.
'That's the one thing that keeps us smiling through our tears, that Matthew lives forever. When God gives a gift, he gives it forever,' said Fr. David Durkee, becoming choked up.
The second memorial and night of remembrance started later around 8 p.m. at Witwer Park in North Canton next to North Canton Middle School.
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Hundreds came out in force and in costume.
Some wore blue clothing, which was his favorite color. Others dressed up like characters from Star Wars, but they all carried lights.
'Light because he was a light,' said organizer Rachel Hoffman Murray. 'We've got the glow sticks and light sabers, flashlights and a chance to kind of shine in that darkness.'
Matthew's death on Memorial Day has devastated the area after the teen fell from a trailer during the parade.
Also in attendance at the vigil were members of the Ohio Garrison 501st Legion Star Wars Cosplayers who were at the parade that day.
They said he was always full of joy, curiosity and laughter.
'Matthew was a huge Star Wars fan. Some of our members even got a chance to speak with him before the incident and he was very excited to see us,' said David Hise, Ohio Garrison 501st Commander.
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The vigil was designed to help everyone honor Matthew's life and cope with the tragic loss.
'To recognize Matthew, recognize his family and just, you know, honor the time that we had with him,' said Hoffman-Murray.
The community is also allying behind the family in other ways too, from upcoming restaurant fundraisers to selling specially designed t-shirts.
'My daughter knew Matthew. We couldn't believe it and we just wanted to do something to help,' said Ashley Humphrey.
They said they want to be a force of heartfelt solidarity and tangible support for Matthew's family during this difficult time.
'I think that's part of the healing process, everyone coming together supporting one another,' said Hise.
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