7-Year-Old Boy Killed While Practicing Bike Riding for Upcoming Family Vacation

A Massachusetts family is mourning a 7-year-old boy who was struck and killed by a car while riding his bike just days after learning how to ride.

Max Curtis Rothschild, of Williamstown, was identified by the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office following the deadly crash on Friday, Aug. 8.

According to authorities, the collision happened in the afternoon near the intersection of Main Street and Buxton Hill Road in Williamstown.

Investigators said a vehicle was traveling east on Main Street while Max was riding his bicycle down Buxton Hill Road toward the intersection.

Based on preliminary findings, authorities believe Max unintentionally entered Main Street, where he was struck by the vehicle.

The young boy died from his injuries at the scene.

Officials said the driver was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Max was also wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Max’s family later revealed that he had only recently learned how to ride a bicycle and had been practicing for a special reason.

“Max had just learned how to ride a bike and was so proud of himself,” his family wrote in an obituary. “He was practicing to get ready for a longer bike ride on an upcoming family vacation.”

The heartbreaking tribute described Max as a curious, confident and adventurous child who loved learning, swimming and skiing. He was also enthusiastic about chess and soccer camp.

His family remembered him as someone with a big personality who always knew exactly what he wanted.

“Max was a good friend, if sometimes a little bossy,” the obituary read. “He had a strong personality and knew what he wanted. He had so much confidence.”

His family joked that when Max was in preschool, they called him “the mayor of the school” because he walked around as if he owned the place — and everyone treated him that way.

Max was also remembered as a loving brother to his siblings, Caleb and Ellie.

“He was also an amazing brother, even if fights did happen,” the obituary continued. “He loved his siblings, Caleb and Ellie, and they will miss him every day.”

Max is survived by his parents, siblings and grandfather.

His family said the seven years they had with him were simply not enough.

“Max brought so much joy and love into all our lives,” the tribute read. “We will miss his incredible mind, his determination, his mischievousness, his adventurous spirit, his bossiness, his smile, and all the little things that made him exactly who he was.”

“We will all miss him forever. Seven years with Max was not enough time.”

Max attended Williamstown Elementary School.

Mount Greylock Regional School District Superintendent Joseph Bergeron said the district was reaching out directly to families and offering support following the tragedy.

“The district is communicating with families directly to offer every support that we’re able in this sad and confusing tragedy,” Bergeron said.