'Truly Heartbroken': Community Mourns Boy, 13, Killed In E-Bike Crash

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — The 13-year-old killed on Wednesday while riding an e-bike has been identified in a note sent out to the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools community.

Leadership at the district says the loss of Nico Lombardi, an eighth-grade student at Nettingham Middle School, has left everyone "truly heartbroken" and calls on the community to come together to carry everyone through the next few days.

Thursday's Back to School Nights at Nettingham Middle School and Terrill Middle School were canceled to "honor and respect the enormity of the loss" and "provide a space for grieving."

Nico is being remembered as being "filled with joy, love, and an unforgettable sense of humor," his obituary reads, and "the sweetest boy, known by all for his kind heart and bright smile."

A Gofundme page has also been created to support Nico's family and in his honor for future student-athletes. Along with helping to support funeral costs, donations will create a basketball scholarship in his name at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School.

His love for athletics is also leading the family to donate money from the fundraiser to the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Police Athletic League (PAL) to establish an additional scholarship in his name.

"The Lombardi family is deeply grateful for the incredible outpouring of love, support, and donations from the community," the page reads. "Our hearts are with you, and we hope you feel the love and strength of those around you during this unimaginable time."

At around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday, Nico was riding an e-bike near the intersection of Mountain Avenue and Mountainview Avenue when he was hit by the driver of a landscaping truck. He was taken to University Hospital in Newark where he was pronounced dead.

The driver was found near the scene and was cooperating with police. No charges have been filed at this time.

The Scotch Plains Police Department is asking any witnesses or others with information to immediately reach out to 908-322-7100 extension 103 or 104.

A memorial service on Saturday from 2 to 6 p.m. at Rossi Funeral Home was announced by the Scotch Plains Police Department. Parking areas have been designated at Nettingham High School, Municipal Lot 5 (1830 E. Second St.), Municipal Lot 3 (430 Park Ave.), and Municipal Lot 1 (1917 Bartle Ave. at the library).

An additional lot for overflow parking will be located at Brunner School, along with a shuttle bus that will bring guests to and from the funeral home. The shuttle will also be available at the front for those who park on the streets around Brunner School.

Rossi's Funeral Home is located at 1937 Westfield Ave. in Scotch Plains.

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