Briggs Maxwell, a freshman running back and linebacker for Ithaca/Weston football, died Thursday morning after a farming accident involving a skid loader, according to the Richland County Sheriff’s Office and the Ithaca School District.
The Ithaca School District is mourning the loss of Briggs Maxwell, a freshman student and football player who died Thursday, August 27, following a farming accident.
What Happened
The Richland County Sheriff’s Office says deputies received a 911 call just after 7 a.m. Thursday reporting a farming accident involving a skid loader. EMS and first responders arrived to find a boy with a serious head injury. He was taken to a hospital for treatment, but despite life-saving efforts, he later died from his injuries.
The Ithaca School District confirmed that Briggs Maxwell was the student who died.
A Community in Mourning
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the student’s family, friends, classmates and everyone who knew and loved them during this incredibly difficult time,” the district said in a statement. “This is a time for our school community to come together, support one another and give one another grace.”
Those who knew Briggs are remembering him as someone who lit up every room he walked into. Ithaca FFA described him as always quick with a smile and a helping hand, someone eager to try new things. The Wisconsin Wolfpack Baseball club remembered him as endlessly curious — the kind of teammate who asked questions not just to learn something, but to truly master it, calling him a true leader on and off the field.
Briggs played freshman running back and linebacker for the Ithaca/Weston football team, according to Bound Wisconsin. He was known as a promising young athlete with his whole future ahead of him — a future this tragedy has now cut short, leaving behind a grieving family, teammates, and community.
Support for Students and Staff
The Ithaca School District says counselors and other trusted adults will be available for any student or staff member who needs support or simply someone to talk to. The school gymnasium and classrooms will remain open for students, families, and staff to meet with school personnel and counseling services.
Friday’s Game Canceled
Out of respect for Briggs and his community, Friday’s football game between Ithaca/Weston and Wauzeka-Steuben/Seneca has been canceled, according to Travis Wilson of Bound Wisconsin.
Our condolences go out to Briggs’ family, friends, teammates, and everyone whose life he touched.
