12-Year-Old Boy in Critical Condition After Being Hit by Stray Ball During Baseball Warmups

Xavier Taylor was struck in the neck by a loose ball and remains on a ventilator in the intensive care unit.

Published: 6/2/2026, 3:06:39 PM EDT

12-Year-Old Boy in Critical Condition After Being Hit by Stray Ball During Baseball Warmups — Baseball field in Maple Shade, New Jersey, in April 2023. (Google Maps/Screenshot via NTD)

A 12-year-old boy remains hospitalized in critical condition after being hit by a stray ball while warming up for a youth baseball game in New Jersey last week.

Xavier Taylor, who is a member of the Maple Shade Youth Baseball program, was struck in the neck by a loose ball as he was walking to the dugout ahead of his May 26 game, the boy's father, Gregory Taylor, told CBS News on Friday.

After collapsing to the ground at Fellowship Columbia Bank Field, Xavier was airlifted to Cooper University Hospital in Camden—roughly 10 miles away from the township of Maple Shade—where he remains on a ventilator in the intensive care unit, his father added.

The Maple Shade Youth Baseball Association issued a statement Monday, noting that the league would resume play on June 8 with the Taylor family's blessing to close out the T-Ball, Rookie, and Minor division seasons.

"Out of respect for the players, coaches, and families in our Major division, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of the Major season only," the association wrote. "Our focus remains on supporting the Taylor family while also providing an opportunity for our players to return to the game they love. More importantly, the game Xavier loves."

A Meal Train—a community-led platform used to coordinate meal deliveries for those in need—organized for the Taylor family has raised more than $110,000 from nearly 1,500 donors as of Tuesday morning.

Local sports teams and the community at large have rallied around Xavier, sharing #XavierStrong messages on social media and leaving baseball bats outside their homes. A vigil was also held on May 28 at Fellowship Columbia Bank Field.

In a Facebook video, Xavier's teammates shared messages of support and wished their friend a speedy recovery.

"Xavier, we're praying for you. Can't wait for you to get back on that field," one boy said.

"I miss you, bro," another shared. "I know you'll be back soon and you'll be better than ever. I love you."

Gregory Taylor took to Facebook following the incident to express gratitude for the support his family has received and to share that they are also praying for a miracle.

"There can be no words our family has of the outpouring of love, visitors, support, donations, thoughts, and prayers to our family over the last few days," he wrote on May 28. "We believe and come into agreement that miracles do exist and a miracle will happen for our Xavier. He is a God fearing young man."