A nine-year-old boy from Massachusetts has tragically died after being struck by a falling tree on the playground of his elementary school. Zakaria Bel Qaid, an accomplished young skier, had celebrated his birthday just days before the freak accident on May 4 at Winthrop School, located 10 miles south of Boston.
The Incident
According to a statement from his family, Bel Qaid was one of three people struck when the tree came crashing down, injuring all three. His family announced their 'incomprehensible loss' on his social media page, stating: 'It is with utmost sadness and grief that we announce the passing of our most beautiful boy, Zakaria. He was involved in a crazy and unbelievable accident on the playground at his school, where a tree from a neighboring property broke and fell on him while he was playing on the play structure. He spent his last moments laughing and playing tag with his little sister and her friend.'
A Promising Young Athlete
Bel Qaid was a competitive skier who frequently shared photos and videos from his competitions on social media. His mother said the sport was 'everything to him.' He had recently won a national championship in Colorado, placing first in his age group for half pipe and ski cross. The Green Mountain Academy in Stowe, Vermont, where he trained, remembered him as 'an enthusiastic skier and joyful soul gone too soon.'
Community Response
According to the Melrose School Committee, the adult and other child injured in the accident were taken to area hospitals and have since been discharged. 'Counseling staff and additional administrators are on site at the Winthrop School to support students and staff as they navigate this challenging time,' the committee said in a statement. 'This is a very sad day at Winthrop School and for our entire Melrose Community. Our deepest condolences go out to the family, and we ask that you please respect their privacy at this time.'
Friends, neighbours, and classmates set up a memorial for Bel Qaid outside the playground, with cards, flowers, and toys. Residents expressed their shock and grief. 'This is horrible. Why does this have to happen to him?' said eighth-grade student George Alexis. 'It's so sad, but it makes us realize that life is so precious,' added Cheryl Riley.
Family's Farewell
The Qaid family laid their son to rest on May 8, making one final post thanking the community for their 'outpouring of support.' They wrote: 'Zakaria will continue to live on in spirit - he will push us to do better, to never give up no matter how hard it may be. His infectious smile, that was his ticket out of trouble, will forever be etched in our minds and his determination and passion for everything he did will forever live in our hearts.'
The family has asked that donations be made to the Green Mountain Academy in Stowe, Vermont, which offers skiing and snowboarding lessons and provides scholarships to struggling families.
