The vigil is taking place at Whitwer Park, next to North Canton Middle School.
In Stark County, a vigil is being held tonight to honor the memory of 13-year-old Matthew Schultz, a student at North Canton Middle School. Matthew tragically passed away after falling from a trailer during the Green Memorial Day parade.
Friends and classmates from North Canton Middle School will come together at Witwer Park at 8 p.m. to pay tribute to Matthew. Attendees are encouraged to wear blue, which was Matthew’s favorite color, and to bring a light saber, glow stick, or flashlight.
The vigil is following a special memorial rosary for Matthew at Queen of Heaven Parish in Uniontown at 6:30 p.m.
North Canton City Schools previously provided the following statement to 3News on Matthew’s death:
The untimely loss of a young life is truly heartbreaking, and our hearts go out to Matthew’s loved ones, schoolmates, and educators during this difficult time. Matthew was known for his kindness and caring nature. Our sincerest condolences are with his family and all those who are impacted by this heartbreaking event.
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.
Funeral Arrangements
Calling hours for Matthew will be held Monday, June 2, from 4-8 p.m. at Rossi Family Funeral Home in Canton.
A Mass of Christian Burial is set for Tuesday, June 3, at 11 a.m. at Christ the Servant Catholic Parish. Burial will follow at Sunset Hills Memory Gardens, with a luncheon at Haymaker’s Mill 1875.
According to his obituary, Matthew enjoyed “Star Wars,” Legos and wolves, and was active in his church community. He also participated in the Sophie Bowl, a local event that raises awareness for congenital heart defects.
“Matthew overcame many obstacles in his short life. He was born with a congenital heart defect, and went through numerous surgeries. He never stopped fighting to get stronger. Through all of this he kept his spirits up and always made others feel better,” his obituary reads.
The family is requesting donations in his honor to the Sophie Bowl, Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital or Akron Children’s Hospital.
Details surrounding Matthew Schultz’s death
The incident happened around 11:30 a.m. Monday, near the end of the parade route. Authorities say Matthew was riding on a trailer pulled by a pickup truck when he fell off and was struck by the trailer’s wheels.
Emergency crews from the Green Fire Department, who were already on scene for the parade, responded and transported Matthew to Akron Children’s Hospital. He was pronounced dead at 12:04 p.m., according to the medical examiner.
Sgt. Corin Usinski previously confirmed to 3News that the same truck pulling the trailer also ran over the teen after he fell.
