The tight-knit community of Middlesex Borough is grieving the tragic loss of 17-year-old James Matula, a beloved student-athlete who died over the weekend from injuries suffered in a car crash last week. In a town where neighbors feel like family and every Blue Jays victory is celebrated together, James’s passing has shaken the community to its core. He was known not only as a standout baseball player, but as a kind, joyful young man who brought light wherever he went.
News of his death spread deep sorrow throughout Middlesex. As of Monday afternoon, more than 200 donors had contributed over $54,000 to a GoFundMe titled “Donate to James Matula’s Healing and Hope,” showing just how many lives he touched. Middlesex High School baseball coach Blaze Iannetti described James as “the type of kid who could light up a room—always smiling.” He added that James was one of the team’s most dedicated players and a major force behind this year’s state championship victory.
James had been part of Middlesex baseball for nearly his entire life. From Little League to earning a spot on the varsity team as a freshman, he spent countless hours on the field perfecting his craft. Teammates shared emotional tributes honoring the bond they built with him over the years. His best friend, Chris Kozak, posted childhood photos and wrote, “No words will ever describe how much you meant to me… I am so grateful I got to be best friends with you for your entire 17 years of life… I know you will always be watching over me in everything I do because you were my brother.” Another teammate, Marcus Lavornia, called James his “first Middlesex friend” and said, “James, forever in my heart. I love you so much, brother.”
According to Coach Iannetti, James was returning from an out-of-state trip when the crash occurred. He was airlifted to a North Jersey hospital with severe injuries. In the days that followed, the community rallied, holding vigils, gatherings, and prayer events. An emotional assembly took place on the high school baseball field Friday morning, where classmates and teammates stood together in grief. On Saturday evening, Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church hosted a vigil that drew a large crowd of students, parents, and community members.
One of the most touching moments came when James received his long-awaited championship ring—a symbol of the victory he helped secure. The team was originally scheduled to receive their rings the night of the crash, but instead, the ring was brought to the hospital. “He did get his ring before he passed,” Iannetti said, describing it as a moment of comfort during a time of overwhelming sadness.
In the days since, the school district has mobilized counselors and support staff to help students process their grief. “A loss of this magnitude touches every corner of our schools,” Superintendent Roberta Freeman said in a letter to families. “In times like these, it is important that we hold tightly to one another and extend compassion freely.” As Middlesex mourns, the community continues to honor James’s memory—remembering a young man whose heart, spirit, and love for his teammates will never be forgotten.
