MIDDLESEX – According to a letter written by Superintendent of Schools Roberta Freeman, a Middlesex High School student has died.
“Our hearts are with the student’s family, friends, classmates and all who are feeling the weight of this loss,” Freeman said. “A loss of this magnitude touches every corner of our schools. In times like these it is important that we hold tightly to one another, extend compassion freely and create space for students and staff to process their emotions in their own ways and at their own pace.”
The letter also detailed information about services and support available by the Middlesex Board of Education. On Sunday afternoon, counselors were on site at the high school.
The superintendent’s letter did not identify the student.
On Wednesday, it was reported on social media that James Matula, a member of the Group 1 state champion Blue Jays baseball team, was in a serious car crash. The 17-year-old was seriously injured in the accident while heading back to New Jersey from a trip out of state, head coach Blaze Iannetti confirmed to Central Jersey Sports Radio Thursday morning.
After the accident, Matula was flown to a North Jersey hospital, according to that media report.
The son of Kris and April Matula, the teen is described as a “beautiful young adult” who was kind, determined and an excellent student-athlete.
More: Middlesex’s Blaze Iannetti is the Home News Tribune’s Baseball Coach of the Year
The Middlesex American Youth Football and Cheer organization posted condolences a few days after Central Jersey Sports Radio reported Matula was injured. Friends also began posting condolences on social media. With a photo of the two of them as very young baseball players, teammate and best friend Chris Kozak said “no words will ever describe how much you meant to me, my first ever friend.”
“I am so grateful that I got to be best friends with you for your entire 17 years of life,” Kozak said. “From the day we met, we had an instant bond that could never be broke. I know you will always be watching over me in everything I do cause you were my brother. I love you buddy.”
Earlier, a GoFundMe was established by local brewery Capital Craft to help support the family. As of Sunday afternoon, it has raised more than $41,000.
Matula played the outfield and hit .263 last season as a junior on the Group 1 champion baseball team, with six runs batted in 44 plate appearances and a couple of stolen bases, Central Jersey Sports Radio said. The Middlesex Blue Jays baseball team has won the state championship in 1990, 2007, 2013, 2017, 2018, 2021 and with Matula, in June 2025.
Additionally, Freeman said the school district has activated additional supports across all buildings. Counselors from the Traumatic Loss Coalition as well as the district’s counselors, child study team members and administrators will be available Monday to meet with students individually, small groups, or provide a quiet, safe space.
“We encourage families to reach out to their building principals or counselors if you believe your child may benefit from talking with someone or if you need guidance on how to support them at home,” Freeman said. “During times like this, our strength comes from the way we care for one another. I am grateful for the kindness and respect that define our Middlesex community, and I know that spirit will guide us in the days ahead.”
email: cmakin@gannettnj.com
Cheryl Makin is an award-winning feature, news and education reporter for MyCentralJersey.com, part of the USA Today Network. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

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