Wayland, Massachusetts — A Massachusetts community is mourning the loss of an 8-year-old boy who died after being struck by a falling tree at a summer camp, as his family comes forward to share his identity and remember the child they described as full of joy, creativity and love for his family.
The boy was identified as Mason Sundberg by his family. The Sudbury Police Department shared the heartbreaking update Thursday, Aug. 20, confirming that Mason had died from injuries sustained in the incident at YMCA Camp Chickami in Wayland.
Family Remembers Mason as Full of Joy
In a statement shared by police, Mason’s family described him as a beloved son, grandson, nephew and cousin who “loved his family more than anything”, along with his dog, River.
The family remembered the 8-year-old as “funny, goofy and crazy in all the right ways.” They said Mason would be remembered for singing and dancing around the house with a wide smile and a skip in his step.
His interests reflected his energetic and creative personality. According to his family, Mason loved video games, sushi, swimming, skiing and running, as well as celebrating holidays with elaborate decorations.
He also enjoyed drawing and creating stories with his friends and reportedly carried a notebook in his bag wherever he went.
“His brightness will be missed, but never forgotten to those who loved him,” his family said.
Police Confirm Child Died From Injuries
The Sudbury Police Department said the community is now grieving the loss of one of its youngest residents.
Police acknowledged how difficult the tragedy could be for children who knew Mason, particularly friends and classmates who may be struggling to understand his death.
The department said it is working with Sudbury Public Schools to provide support and resources to students, families and other members of the community during the difficult period.
The family also thanked members of the community for their condolences and said additional details about memorial services would be shared later.
Tree Accident Happened at Camp Chickami
The tragedy occurred Tuesday, Aug. 19, at YMCA Camp Chickami in Wayland.
Wayland police and fire officials said emergency responders arrived at approximately 10:40 a.m. and found a child suffering from life-threatening injuries.
Authorities said the incident involved a large tree that brought down another tree, creating what officials described as a domino effect.
Wayland Acting Police Chief Mark Hebert explained that the falling trees were connected in the sequence of events that ultimately resulted in the child being struck.
Mason was taken for emergency medical care following the incident, but his injuries proved fatal.
Camp Closed for Rest of Season
The tragedy has also led to the closure of Camp Chickami for the remainder of its scheduled season.
Jack Fucci, president and CEO of the West Suburban YMCA, said the decision was made after consultation with families and camp staff.
The camp had originally been scheduled to remain open until September 4.
Fucci said the closure was intended to show respect for Mason’s family and support the wider camping community following the devastating accident.
Grief counseling will also be available to fellow campers and staff as they process the loss.
Community Faces Difficult Days Ahead
For Mason’s family, the coming days will be focused on remembering a young boy whose life was filled with family, friends, hobbies and seemingly endless energy.
For the Sudbury and Wayland communities, the tragedy is likely to be felt among students, camp staff and families who knew him.
As memorial arrangements are prepared, Mason’s family is asking the community to remember the bright, energetic 8-year-old whose smile, creativity and love for those around him left a lasting impression.
What would you like to say to Mason’s family and everyone affected by this heartbreaking tragedy? Share your thoughts and condolences in the comments.