Young boy, 13, dies in freak accident at Memorial Day Parade
Matthew Schultz, a student from North Canton, died Monday after falling from an Air Ninja Gym float during the annual parade in the city of Green.
The trailer, which carried six other children ages 7 to 13, was being escorted by two adults walking alongside it when the tragic accident occurred.
The float was representing a children's gym in Green and it was attached to a dual-axle car hauler being pulled by a Ford F-150 pick-up truck, which was driving at or below 5 miles an hour at the time of the accident, according to the sheriff's office.
The boy fell at around 11:30am before being then struck by the trailer's wheels, according to the Summit County Medical Examiner.
Paramedics from the Green Fire Department were following directly behind the float and rushed to help.
Matthew was transported to Akron Children's Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 12:04pm, just over 30 minutes after the incident.
'Our hearts go out to the family this time a terrible loss, we look to support them as a green community any way that we can,' Mayor Rocco Yeargin said.
'Our school district has reached out to the school district of North Canton to offer counselors that will be in action to help their students walk through this issue.'
The teen attended North Canton City Schools, according to the Summit County Sheriff's Office.
North Canton City Schools released a heartbreaking statement, saying Matthew was 'a kind and caring student' who brought joy to those around him.
'The loss of a young life is deeply devastating, and our thoughts and prayers are with Matthew's family, friends, classmates, and teachers during this unimaginable time.'
'He was a kind and caring student. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and to everyone affected by this tragedy.'
'Please know that our crisis management teams have been activated and we will have counseling services and resources available for students and staff at each of our buildings. Please encourage those around you to seek support.'
Danielle Paciorek, who spoke on behalf of the Schultz family, said Matthew 'brought a lifetime worth of joy to those who knew him.'
'Matthew was just 13 years old, but in that short time, he brought a lifetime worth of joy to those who knew him. He was a bright light, full of curiosity, laughter and love,' she said.
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