MIDDLESEX BOROUGH — In a tight-knit town where neighbors feel like family and the community rallies behind every Blue Jays victory, heartbreak has struck at the center of Middlesex. The community is mourning the loss of 17-year-old James Matula, a standout athlete, beloved friend, and cherished member of the state championship baseball team, who died over the weekend following injuries from a car crash last week.
The news has sent waves of grief throughout Middlesex, where James was known not only for his talent on the field, but for his warmth, character, and ability to brighten any room he entered. As of Monday afternoon, more than 200 donors had contributed over $54,000 to a GoFundMe page titled “Donate to James Matula’s Healing and Hope,” a reflection of the deep affection and support surrounding his family.
“James was obviously a great kid,” Middlesex High School baseball coach Blaze Iannetti shared. “He’s the type of kid who could light up a room—always smiling. We feel horrible and just want to send prayers to the family.”
Iannetti described James as one of the team’s hardest workers. As a junior, he played nearly every game as the Blue Jays’ starting left fielder and was a major force behind this year’s state championship victory. James had been connected to Middlesex baseball for most of his life, from his earliest days in Little League to joining the varsity team as a freshman.
The impact James had on his teammates—and the love they held for him—was evident in the heartfelt tributes they shared. Posting childhood photos of the two of them playing baseball, teammate and best friend Chris Kozak 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. From the day we met, we had an instant bond that could never be broken… I know you will always be watching over me in everything I do because you were my brother. I love you, buddy.”
Another teammate, Marcus Lavornia, also expressed his grief, calling James his “first Middlesex friend” from the moment they began playing baseball together.
“I am so incredibly grateful I had the chance to call you my classmate, my friend, my teammate, and most importantly, my brother,” Lavornia said. “James, forever in my heart. I love you so much, brother.”
On James’s final Instagram post—a photo of him on the field, with his back to the camera—Lavornia added a promise: “We’ll give you another one up there, kid.”
According to Coach Iannetti, James was returning to New Jersey 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 gathered together in prayer and support. On Friday morning, an emotional assembly was held on the high school baseball field, where teammates, classmates, and staff stood side by side in solidarity. On Saturday evening, Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church held a vigil that drew a large crowd of grieving students, parents, and community members.
One of the most touching moments came when James received his long-awaited championship ring. The team was originally scheduled to receive their rings the night of the crash, but the ceremony was postponed. Instead, the ring was delivered to James’s home and then brought to the hospital, where he received it before he passed.
“He did get his ring before he passed,” Iannetti said. “A family member brought it up on Friday morning.”
On Sunday and Monday, the school district mobilized counselors, administrators, and child study team members to provide support for students processing the tremendous loss.
“Our hearts are with the student’s family, friends, classmates, and all who are feeling the weight of this loss,” Superintendent Roberta Freeman said in a letter to families. “A loss of this magnitude touches every corner of our schools. In times like these, it is important that we hold tightly to one another, extend compassion freely, and create space for students and staff to process their emotions in their own ways and at their own pace.”
Funeral arrangements and services have not yet been announced.
James Matula leaves behind a legacy of talent, dedication, and kindness—a young man who was loved by everyone, who played the game he adored with everything he had, and whose spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of his teammates and community.
