Tragic Incident Claims the Life of a 13-Year-Old Boy in New Jersey
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Nico-Lombardi-092625-bc9aaa6025b741718c0a4363468e308d.jpg)
A devastating incident in New Jersey has left a community in mourning after a 13-year-old boy lost his life in a collision between a landscaping truck and an e-bike. The victim, identified as Nico Lombardi by his loved ones, was fatally injured in the crash that occurred on the afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 24, according to a statement released by the Scotch Plains Police Department.
Emergency responders were called to the intersection of Mountain Avenue and Mountainview Avenue at around 2:12 p.m., where they found Nico with critical injuries. Despite being rushed to a hospital in Newark by the Scotch Plains Fire Department EMS, he tragically succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the landscaping truck remained at the scene and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
Expressing deep sorrow over the loss, Scotch Plains Mayor Josh Losardo conveyed his condolences to Nico’s family and the wider community. The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of Education has been informed, with plans in place to provide support to students and staff during this difficult period. A memorial service for Nico is scheduled to take place on Saturday, Sept. 27 at Rossi Funeral Home.
In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, Nico’s family has set up a GoFundMe page that has garnered over £152,000 as of Friday, Sept. 26. Fondly remembered for his passion for basketball, the family aims to establish a basketball scholarship in his honour at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School. The fundraising page mentioned that the scholarship will commemorate Nico’s love for the sport and support student athletes who share a similar passion.
The loss of Nico has reverberated through the community, prompting an outpouring of support and tributes for the young boy. As investigations into the circumstances surrounding the collision continue, the community stands united in remembrance of Nico and the positive impact he had during his brief life.
In times of tragedy, the strength of a community is truly tested, and Scotch Plains is rallying together to offer solace and support to those affected by this untimely loss. Through the establishment of scholarships and memorials, Nico’s memory will be preserved as a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
As the investigation unfolds and the community mourns the loss of a young life cut short, the spirit of unity and compassion prevails, serving as a beacon of light in the midst of darkness. The legacy of Nico Lombardi lives on through the love and support of those who were touched by his presence, ensuring that he will always be remembered as a cherished member of the Scotch Plains community.