A 12-year-old boy is in critical condition after a baseball struck him in the neck during a freak accident in South Jersey. The incident occurred on Tuesday as the young athlete, identified as Xavier Taylor, was warming up for a game with Maple Shade Youth Baseball.

Critical Condition After Errant Throw

Xavier was reportedly airlifted to Cooper University Hospital following the accident, where he is currently in the intensive care unit. His father, Greg Taylor, expressed his determination for his son’s recovery, stating, “My son Xavier loves this game. He will play this game again.”

Community Rallies in Support

Hundreds of friends, neighbors, and teammates gathered at Fellowship Columbia Bank Field, the site of the incident, for a prayer vigil on Thursday night. The event featured music, candles, and messages of hope, with many attendees wearing shirts bearing Xavier’s No. 6 jersey number.

One speaker at the vigil shared, “Tonight, we are here to lift him up in prayer, strength and hope and love.” The community’s solidarity was further demonstrated through the organization of a meal train for the Taylor family and a crowdfunding effort that has already raised over $60,000.

Father’s Gratitude and Faith

Greg Taylor shared an emotional post on social media, highlighting the overwhelming support his family has received. He remarked on the lessons baseball teaches, including teamwork and perseverance, stating, “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.”

In a Facebook post accompanied by photographs of Xavier, Greg Taylor wrote, “There can be no words our family has of the outpouring of love, visitors, support, donations, thoughts, and prayers to our family over the last few days. We believe and come into agreement that miracles do exist and a miracle will happen for our Xavier.” He also expressed his gratitude for the community’s efforts, saying, “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.”