A 13-year-old boy from North Canton died Monday after falling from a parade float during the City of Green’s Memorial Day parade, according to local officials.
The incident has left the community in mourning and prompted an outpouring of support for the boy’s family.
The trailer, pulled by a Ford F-150 pickup truck, was carrying seven children between the ages of 7 and 13, with an adult walking on either side for supervision. The vehicle was traveling at or below 5 mph and was about 200 feet north of the roundabout at Massillon Road and Steese Road when the accident happened.
Authorities said the boy fell from the front of the trailer and was subsequently struck by the trailer’s tires. Green Fire and EMS, who were participating in the parade and were two vehicles behind the trailer, witnessed the accident and responded right away.
Counselors have been made available at Green High School and for first responders and staff, as well as for anyone in the community who needs support, according to Yeargin.
The Summit Metro Crash Team is assisting the Summit County Sheriff’s Office in the ongoing investigation. Massillon Road was closed for approximately two hours Monday as authorities processed the scene, according to the sheriff’s office.
Speaking on behalf of the Schultz family during the news conference, Schultz family representative Danielle Paciorek said: “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 fueled curiosity, laughter, and love. He had a passion for Star Wars, and his favorite snack in the world was fruit snacks.
“He was always quick with a smile and a kind word to his friends. He was loyal and funny, the kind of friend who you made for life,” she added. “Matthew’s absence leaves a hole that cannot be filled.”
The Schultz family is asking for privacy at this time as they grieve, Paciorek said.