Massachusetts

‘Sweet, Gentle Soul': Massachusetts Community Grieves Loss of 9-Year-Old Boy Killed in Ski Accident

9-year-old William Shaw, of Carlisle, Mass., loved giving hugs and was an amazing big brother, according to his obituary

A 9-year-old Massachusetts boy who was killed in a ski accident is being remembered as a young boy who loved sports and lived life to the fullest.

William Shaw, of Carlisle, died Tuesday after hitting a tree at a ski resort in southwest Montana.

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Shaw was a third grader at Carlisle Elementary School, where he considered a role model. His obituary cited how the young boy was always welcoming. When a new student was placed in Shaw's class mid-year, teachers would always put them next to him because he was warm, sharing and a friend to all.

"William was a sweet and engaging boy and our entire community is deeply saddened and heartbroken by this tragic event. He and his family are cherished members of our Carlisle community," Superintendent Jim O'Shea said in a statement. "All of our thoughts, prayers and efforts are being offered to his family, friends and everyone who has been touched by William's life."

Shaw's obituary says he was an amazing older brother who loved the color green. It also says he traveled the world, excelled in math, and enjoyed all kinds of sports like skiing.

"Above all else he was a loving boy and he was loved; he brought his family endless amounts of joy," the obituary read.

O'Shea said the town and school community are committed to supporting the needs of the students and their families during this difficult time. They will have resources ready Monday to support students as they return from winter break, O'Shea said in the statement.

On Feb. 19, Shaw's father reported him missing near the junction of two intermediate runs at Big Sky Resort. The boy was found in a tree well on a steep slope, and the coroner's office determined that he died of blunt-force trauma.

Shaw's family has asked for privacy at this time.

A celebration of life will be held at the First Religious Society in Carlisle on March 2, and a reception will follow at Carlisle Public School. 

Click here to read Shaw's full obituary.

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