The Scotch Plains, New Jersey community is reeling after the sudden death of 13-year-old Nico Lombardi, who was involved in an electric bicycle accident earlier this week. Lombardi, remembered as an active member of the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Police Athletic League (SPFPAL), leaves behind a grieving family deeply rooted in local sports and community life.
The New Jersey Suburban Youth Football League (NJSYFL), where Lombardi once played, confirmed his passing in a heartfelt tribute. “Our motto is ‘it’s about the kids,’ and this one hurts,” the league shared. The message underscored how Lombardi’s loss resonates not only with his teammates but with parents and volunteers who see youth sports as a cornerstone of community connection.
Lombardi’s family has long been a familiar presence on local sidelines. His older brother currently plays varsity football at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School, while his younger sister is a fourth-grade cheerleader for SPFPAL. Friends describe Nico as energetic, kind, and always ready to support his peers.
“This tragedy has shaken us all,” said one parent of a fellow SPFPAL athlete. “It’s a reminder of how fragile life can be and how important it is to hold our kids close.”
The incident has also reignited conversations around safety and the growing popularity of electric bicycles among young riders. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, e-bike-related injuries have risen in recent years as more families embrace them for recreation and transportation. In many New Jersey towns, parents and officials are calling for increased awareness, proper safety gear, and community education to prevent further accidents.
For now, though, Scotch Plains is focused on honoring Lombardi’s memory and supporting his family. The NJSYFL has encouraged families to come together, offering prayers, hugs, and solidarity during this difficult time. Local coaches and youth leaders are expected to organize memorial gestures at upcoming games.
The Lombardi family’s grief is being met with an outpouring of compassion. Neighbors, teammates, and friends have been sharing stories online, remembering Nico not just as a young athlete, but as a vibrant part of the Scotch Plains community.
As the town rallies in support, the tragedy serves as both a heartbreaking loss and a powerful reminder of community strength in times of sorrow.
