A 12-year-old boy from New Jersey is in critical condition after a tragic incident where a baseball hit his neck during a warm-up session before a game, as reported by his family.
On Thursday evening, hundreds of friends and community members gathered to show their support for Xavier Taylor, a player with Maple Shade Youth Baseball, who is currently fighting for his life in the intensive care unit, according to ABC 7.
“My son Xavier has a deep passion for this game. He will play it again,” Greg Taylor, Xavier’s father, assured the crowd gathered at Fellowship Columbia Bank Field, the site of the accident.
The incident occurred on Tuesday when a wayward throw struck Xavier, causing him to collapse on the field. He was subsequently airlifted to Cooper Hospital for treatment.
Some reports suggest that the ball may have hit him in the back of the head or face.
At Thursday’s gathering, supporters donned shirts with Xavier’s number 6, lit candles, and offered prayers for his recovery.
“Tonight, we are here to lift him up in prayer, strength and hope and love,” one speaker said, according to the station. “Baseball teaches us about teamwork, showing up for one another and never giving up, and tonight, that’s exactly what we’re doing for Xavier.”
Supporters have also organized a meal train for the family and raised more than $60,000 to help them.
“I could not have asked or ever dreamt of support like this right now, but our end goal is for our son to be back on this field or whatever field is next destined for him,” Greg Taylor said.
His condition wasn’t immediately clear Friday.
