Schoolboy's Sudden Death Shocks Highland Community
The close-knit community of Staxigoe in Caithness is reeling from the sudden and tragic death of an 11-year-old boy on New Year's Day. Mason Neal passed away in hospital just hours after first complaining of feeling unwell, leaving his family and friends devastated.
A Mother's Heartbreaking Tribute
In an emotional social media post, Mason's mother, Lucy, described her son as a 'loving, caring, bright, cheeky and handsome little man'. She expressed the profound depth of the family's grief, writing: 'Reality hasn't sunk in yet. To say I'm devastated, heartbroken and utterly destroyed doesn't even come close.'
Lucy shared that the family said their final goodbyes on 1 January 2026, as Mason closed his eyes for the last time. She poignantly noted that the 4,322 days they had with him would never be enough, signing off her tribute with 'Forever 11'.
Community Rallies with Overwhelming Support
In response to the tragedy, members of the local Staxigoe community swiftly organised a fundraiser to support Mason's grieving family. The appeal, which describes Mason's sudden death and aims to help his mother Lucy and big sister Phoebe, has seen an outpouring of generosity.
More than £13,500 has been raised so far, demonstrating the community's solidarity in the face of an incomprehensible loss.
Police Confirm No Suspicious Circumstances
Police Scotland confirmed they were called at around 11.10am on Thursday, 1 January 2026, to a report of a young boy who had taken unwell in Staxigoe, outside Wick. Mason was taken by ambulance to Caithness General Hospital, where he tragically died later the same day.
A police statement confirmed: 'There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.' The family has been informed of all developments.
The sudden loss of such a young life has sent shockwaves through the Highland region, prompting an outpouring of condolences and support for a family navigating their darkest hours.
