In the aftermath of a tragic accident during the City of Green’s Memorial Day parade, the community is grieving the loss of 13-year-old Matthew Schultz. His family, seeking both solace and support, has launched a GoFundMe campaign and shared a heartfelt public message in the days following the incident.
The tragedy occurred on Monday, May 26, 2025, when Matthew, a North Canton resident and student at North Canton City Schools in Stark County, was involved in a fatal accident during the parade. According to officials from the Summit County Sheriff’s Office and the City of Green, Matthew was riding on a trailer pulled by a pickup truck when he fell from the front of the trailer and was accidentally run over by the same vehicle.
The incident happened near the end of the parade route, which began at 10 a.m. at Green High School and proceeded along Boettler Road, Massillon Road, Steese Road, and Bulldog Boulevard. Spectators, including local resident Dave Stannard and his wife, recalled the moment the procession came to a sudden halt.
“All of a sudden, things stopped and we didn’t really know what was going on. It was kind of unusual,” Stannard recounted, reflecting the confusion that quickly turned into concern.
The Green Fire Department, already present for the parade, responded immediately and transported Matthew to Akron Children’s Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
“It was a tragedy, an absolute tragedy,” said Sergeant Corin Usinski. “I’ve been a police officer for 25 years, and I’ve never seen anything like this.”
In a Facebook post, the Green Fire Department expressed their heartbreak, commending the swift response of emergency personnel and acknowledging the severity of the situation. The Summit County Sheriff’s Office, with help from the Summit Metro Crash Team, continues to investigate the incident. At this time, no criminal charges have been filed.
Mayor Rocco Yeargin announced that the City of Green has reached out to support the North Canton school district. “Our school district has offered counselors to help their students walk through this issue,” he said.
In the wake of the devastating loss, a GoFundMe campaign was created by Angela Andes to support Matthew’s family during this difficult time. The fundraiser aims to help cover funeral costs and other essential expenses, allowing the family space to grieve without financial pressure.
The page features a photo of Matthew — smiling, wearing glasses, his expression capturing the warmth and spirit so fondly remembered by those who knew him.
“Matthew was a fun, loving, Star Wars-obsessed, fruit snack-loving, amazing young man,” Andes wrote in the campaign description. “He was the best son and big brother. He was everyone’s best friend. The love we had for him is immeasurable.”
As of now, the campaign has raised over $69,000 toward its $80,000 goal — a powerful testament to the community’s generosity and the impact Matthew had on those around him.
On Tuesday, May 27, the Schultz family shared a public statement through family friend Danielle Paciorek, who stood before the press surrounded by loved ones and holding a cherished photo of Matthew.
Fighting back tears, Paciorek read a message of grief and gratitude: “The Schultz family is experiencing an unimaginable heartbreak after the tragic loss of their beloved son, Matthew.”
Danielle Paciorek speaking on behalf of Matthew Schultz’s family, with loved ones surrounding her, posted on May 27, 2025. | Source: YouTube/WKYC Channel 3
She continued, “First and foremost, the family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to everyone who has reached out with love, support, and prayers over these few days. Your kindness has provided a small measure of comfort during a time of overwhelming grief.”
Schultz, Paciorek said, may have only lived 13 years, but in that time, he offered a “lifetime worth of joy” to those around him.
Danielle Paciorek speaking about Matthew Schultz surrounded by grieving loved ones. | Source: YouTube/WKYC Channel 3
Described as a bright light filled with curiosity, laughter, and love, Matthew Schultz was remembered for his unwavering loyalty and the warmth he brought into the lives of those around him. “He was always quick with a smile and a kind word,” Paciorek recalled. “The kind of friend you keep for life.”
As the Schultz family begins what Paciorek called the “difficult process of grieving and healing,” they are leaning on their faith, cherished memories, and the compassion of a community that continues to surround them with love and support.
Paciorek also requested privacy for the Schultz family during this time of mourning, while expressing their heartfelt wish for the public to “continue to lift Matthew up” in their thoughts. She concluded with a poignant reminder: “Remember him not for how he left this world, but for the joy he brought to it. Thank you.”
We extend our deepest condolences to Matthew Schultz’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved him. May they find comfort and healing amid their sorrow. Rest in peace, dear Matthew.
