PALERMO, NJ – The small community of Palermo, New Jersey, was steeped in grief as hundreds congregated to honor the life of a 9-year-old boy, Easton Beisler, who was tragically killed in a vehicular accident last week.
The sorrowful gathering was an outpouring of shared grief and a testament to the remarkable impact that young Easton had on those around him. “Easton embodied a life that we could all strive to live for,” said his teacher, adding to the communal emotions of loss.
The fatal accident occurred in Vineland, outside the Romano Sports Complex, when a motorcycle ridden by 31-year-old Addiel Ortiz collided with a Chevrolet Traverse carrying Easton and his mother. Ortiz, a youth football coach for the Vineland Blitz, also lost his life in the devastating crash.
At the vigil, youth coaches reminisced about Easton, shedding light on his vibrant personality and the indelible impact he had on his peers. Anthony Jackson, Easton’s basketball coach, mentioned, “As the kids would say, ‘He had a game.'” His charisma and sporting talents influenced his peers, making him not just an exceptional player but also an admired figure among his teammates.
In front of the Romano Sports Complex, where the fatal crash occurred, memorials adorned with balloons mark the untimely demise of Easton and Ortiz. Known for his dedication to coaching and his deep love for his four children, Ortiz’s death has left a vacuum in the community.
A GoFundMe campaign initiated in Easton’s memory has already exceeded $100,000 in contributions. A separate candlelight vigil is planned to commemorate Ortiz’s life, scheduled to take place at 7 p.m. on Monday at the Romano Sports Complex.