Hundreds of Staples High School students gathered this morning at Compo Beach, for an emotional memorial to senior Max Harper.
The 18-year-old was killed yesterday on his dirt bike, in a collision with a truck near his Old Hill Road home.
The event — organized by students, and held an hour before a delayed school opening — included words from Max’s father, several friends of Max’s, and family friends; Ed Wooldridge, Staples’ school resource officer; and Pat Micinilio, assistant principal for the Class of 2025.
Many students brought flowers. Somberly, they placed them in the water, then watched them bob gently in the quiet tide.
Max Halper’s father embraces a memorial attendee. (All photos/Luca Caniato)
(Photo/Andrew Colabella)
Beautiful and so painful
My heart goes out to the family and Staples High School. My husband and I read about this, living in FL now, but my hometown is Westport. Such a tragedy for a young person just starting out in life. May he rest in peace.
A beautiful gathering to remember one of their own. My deepest condolences to Max’s family.
Thank you for sharing. We are praying for Max’s family and all who are mourning his untimely loss.
I can not tell you how heart broken to hear about Max Ever though I didn’t him I feel a real sense of loss. I send my heart felt condolences to the Halper family. Just know that he is only a cloud away …..
My heart breaks for his parents.
These photographs are shattering.
Our most sincere condolences to the family and friends, much strength in this difficult time.
Beautifully done. I lost a high school classmate
From Mamaroneck during first college year. I wish we had
Done exactly this.
I grew up in the Old Hill area ‘61-‘66. I rode my bike in that area countless times and spilled several times racing down that curvy hill between Broadview and Partrick. Still have the scars to prove it. I can’t imagine what it’s like for Max’s family or the driver of the other vehicle involved. “There but for the grace of God.”
What a beautiful heartfelt tribute. May Max rest in peace and his family and friends find peace and comfort in their memories.