Note: This story is a republishing of an event that initially made headlines in May 2022.
A tragic incident has plunged a Long Island community into mourning as they come to terms with the loss of a 10-year-old boy who passed away during a Little League baseball game over the weekend.
Lazar LaPenna, a fourth grader at East School in Long Beach, tragically collapsed while running to first base on Friday.
In an emotional interview, Eyewitness News reporter Kristin Thorne spoke with Lazar’s devastated father at their home.
“The town has been incredibly supportive,” said Gregg LaPenna, tears welling in his eyes.
Gregg LaPenna, also the team’s coach, revealed that Lazar had been managing epilepsy for several years, receiving medical care and medication. Due to his condition, the family had restricted him from participating in sports, except for baseball.
The night before the tragedy, Lazar and his family celebrated his 10th birthday at a local restaurant. Some of his birthday presents are still on their way in the mail.
“It’s just heartbreaking,” Gregg LaPenna said, his voice trembling with grief.
Lazar had a deep passion for the Mets and a love for baseball. Last Friday’s game at Point Lookout Park began like any other, with Lazar eagerly participating, but it took a sudden tragic turn.
Gregg LaPenna recounted the heart-wrenching moment, saying, “The last time I saw him, he was standing on first base, smiling at me. I glanced down at my scorebook to mark his hit, and then I heard his brother say, ‘Lazar’s having a seizure.’ I looked back, and he was lying on first base. When I saw his face, I knew something was seriously wrong, not like a regular seizure.”
Lazar’s 12-year-old brother, Gerry LaPenna, who was coaching first base, described how Lazar tried to hold onto him before collapsing.
“He was such a good kid,” Gerry said, his voice filled with sorrow. “He loved everything he did.”
Despite the efforts of EMTs who performed CPR tirelessly, they were unable to revive Lazar.
Describing his son as a gentle soul, Gregg LaPenna shared that Lazar never liked being alone, and his memory will forever remain close to their hearts.
This unexpected tragedy has deeply impacted the community. Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Gallagher extended condolences and announced that grief counselors would be available throughout the week to support students, parents, and school staff coping with the loss.
The Little League expressed condolences and dedicated the rest of the season to the LaPenna family, planning a moment of silence before Monday’s game.
At Point Lookout Park, touching tributes such as baseball caps signed with Lazar’s name have been left by children who shared his love for the game.
WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW:
Sources: ABC 7 NY
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