Wayland, Mass. – A tragic accident at YMCA Camp Chickami on Boston Post Road left an 8‑year‑old boy from Sudbury dead on Wednesday. The child was critically injured Tuesday when a large tree fell, knocking down another tree and sending a heavy branch striking the camper. He was rushed by ambulance to Wayland Town Hall, then air‑lifted to Massachusetts General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Response from Camp and Community Leaders
Jack Fucci, president and CEO of the West Suburban YMCA, issued a statement expressing deep sorrow for the family and emphasizing that grief counseling and additional support services are being made available to campers, staff, and families. Camp Chickami will remain closed for the rest of the week while the site is examined and the community processes the loss.
Wayland Police Chief and Fire Chief Neil McPherson also extended condolences, noting that the town is grieving together. “I encourage anyone who is experiencing overwhelming grief or anxiety to talk to someone, reach out for help, and remember that we are strongest when we stand together as a community,” McPherson said.
Details of the Incident
Authorities said the accident occurred in a clearing within the camp’s 22‑acre wooded area. A large tree fell, striking a second tree and sending a branch onto the boy. A smaller branch also hit a camp counselor, who was hospitalized with minor injuries and has since been released. The counselor’s injuries were described as non‑life‑threatening.
Other children were present in the area at the time, but officials have not disclosed what activities they were engaged in when the trees fell. The cause of the tree’s collapse is still under investigation, and fire and police officials described the event as “highly unusual” but consistent with the unpredictable nature of wooded environments.
Support for the Family and Camp Community
The boy’s family has not been publicly identified. Both the Wayland police and fire departments, as well as the YMCA, are coordinating efforts to provide emotional and logistical assistance to the grieving family. The YMCA has pledged ongoing counseling services for all campers and staff affected by the tragedy.
Community members are encouraged to reach out to local mental‑health resources if they find themselves struggling with the news. The town’s crisis line and nearby counseling centers have been highlighted as points of contact for anyone needing immediate support.
Looking Ahead
Camp Chickami will remain closed for the remainder of the week while officials assess safety protocols and determine any necessary changes to the camp’s infrastructure. The YMCA has indicated that a thorough review will be conducted before the camp reopens for the summer season.
Wayland residents and neighboring towns have expressed solidarity with the family, sharing messages of prayer and comfort on social media platforms. Local churches have also offered prayer services and support for the bereaved.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
