Sudbury, MA – The Sudbury community is grieving the loss of Mason Sundberg, an 8‑year‑old who died after a large tree fell at YMCA Camp Chickami in Wayland on Tuesday. The incident occurred in a clearing on the 22‑acre wooded grounds of the summer day camp on Boston Post Road.
Details of the accident
According to Wayland police and fire officials, a massive tree was knocked down by a falling tree, causing a large branch to strike the child. Emergency responders rushed Mason to Wayland Town Hall, where he was air‑lifted by medical helicopter to Massachusetts General Hospital. He was later pronounced dead. A camp staff member who was hit by a smaller branch was treated and released from the hospital.
Family and community response
Sudbury police shared a statement from Mason’s family on social media, describing him as “a fiercely loyal, loving and empathetic friend” who loved video games, sushi, swimming, skiing, running, drawing and spending time with his dog, River. The family thanked friends, co‑workers and community members for their support and noted that Mason’s “brightness will be missed but never forgotten.”
Sudbury Police Department issued a message to residents, emphasizing that the community is not alone in its sorrow. The department is coordinating with Sudbury Public Schools to provide counseling and resources for students, families and staff affected by the tragedy.
YMCA’s response
The West Suburban YMCA announced that grief counseling and additional support services are being made available to campers, their families and camp staff. Camp Chickami will remain closed for the remainder of the week while the YMCA assesses the site and coordinates with authorities.
Looking ahead
Details about a memorial or celebration of life for Mason will be shared by his family in the coming days. In the meantime, local churches, civic groups and neighbors are organizing informal gatherings to pray for the family and offer comfort.
This heartbreaking event underscores the importance of community solidarity in times of loss. Residents are encouraged to reach out to local resources, including school counselors, the YMCA’s support services and faith‑based ministries, to help children and families process the tragedy.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
