Mattheis Johnson Obituary, Death; – A 15-year-old boy tragically passed away last week after an accident in which he reportedly fell 50 feet from a platform at Gas Works Park in Seattle.
The deceased has been identified as Mattheis Johnson, a student at Ballard High School, as stated in a letter sent to families by the school’s principal, Abby Hunt.
“This week, our school and community are grieving the loss of one of our students, Mattheis Johnson. With the consent of his family, we share this heartbreaking news. Our deepest sympathies are extended to his family and friends during this profoundly challenging time,” Hunt expressed in the letter that was disseminated by Seattle Public Schools to PEOPLE.
“Mattheis passed away following an accident, and his death has come as an unforeseen shock to all who knew him,” Hunt added.
The incident took place on Thursday, July 10, at Gas Works Park, which was hosting a pop-up concert that evening, according to a GoFundMe campaign established for Johnson’s family.
In an email to PEOPLE on Wednesday, July 16, the Seattle Fire Department reported that Johnson fell approximately 50 feet from a platform in the park. They also noted that the boy was transported to Harborview Medical Center in critical condition at that time.
A witness to Johnson’s fall, which occurred around 10:30 p.m. local time, recounted to ABC affiliate KOMO, “It was horrific.” PEOPLE reached out to the Seattle Police Department on Wednesday, July 16, for further details.
The organizer of the GoFundMe described Johnson as a “bright, blossoming soul—an artist, musician, and friend to many.” “Although he may have appeared shy initially, those who knew him well recognized that he lived with remarkable vibrancy,” the description stated.
“Many referred to him as possessing an old soul,” the organizer continued. “He sang, produced his own music on Spotify, cherished deep conversations, had a passion for fashion, participated in track, and played ultimate frisbee for Ballard High School. He was always making new friends and was never hesitant to express a sweet, open-hearted affection for his mother—even in public. He was frequently seen walking his dog with his mother.
The GoFundMe also noted that on the morning of the accident, Johnson shared a preview track of his upcoming second album on Spotify. As of Wednesday, the fundraiser has generated over $46,000. “The outpouring of love from friends, classmates, and neighbors has meant so much to his family,” the GoFundMe stated. PEOPLE also reached out to the GoFundMe organizer on Wednesday.
