HATFIELD, MA – The Hatfield and greater Pioneer Valley community is mourning the devastating loss of Joshua Mizula-Samson, a vibrant and beloved 17-year-old student at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School, who tragically passed away on Sunday morning following a single-vehicle crash on Greenfield Road in Deerfield.
The heartbreaking incident occurred just before noon on July 27, 2025, when the vehicle Joshua was driving overturned and struck a fire hydrant, according to reports from the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office. Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene, where Joshua was pronounced dead. A passenger in the vehicle — described by Joshua’s mother, Ashley Mizula, as a close friend — was injured but is expected to recover after being transported to Baystate Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.
In the days since the tragic accident, an outpouring of love and support has enveloped the Mizula-Samson family. A GoFundMe campaign launched to assist with funeral and memorial expenses has raised over $17,343 from nearly 300 donors, with contributions ranging from $5 to $500. The generosity reflects the impact Joshua had on his community, his school, and especially his friends and loved ones.
“An Exceptional Young Man”
“He was an exceptional young man with numerous friends,” said Ashley Mizula during an emotional phone call with reporters on Tuesday. “I truly appreciate all the kind and heartfelt messages people have shared about him. I love him dearly and I miss him.”
Joshua was set to begin his senior year this fall at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School in Northampton. A bright student with a natural mechanical aptitude, he was deeply passionate about automotive technology and had dreams of pursuing a career in the field. His mother recalled how he could “figure anything out,” from starting almost any engine to fixing small engines for neighbors and friends in his spare time. Whether it was lawnmowers, dirt bikes, or pickup trucks, Joshua had a knack for diagnosing problems and bringing machines back to life.
His enthusiasm for engines was only matched by his warmth and sociability. Friends and family describe him as friendly, funny, and loyal — someone who could easily make people laugh and feel welcome. “He was the type of kid who would do anything to help a friend,” said one classmate.
Community Tribute
A growing memorial now stands at the crash site on Greenfield Road — a poignant tribute to a life gone far too soon. Flowers, handwritten notes, American flags, and small personal items now rest at the base of a nearby utility pole. Hearts and initials have been etched into the wood in Joshua’s honor, marking the place where his community continues to grieve.
School Community Offers Support
The unexpected loss has deeply affected the Smith Vocational school community, where Joshua was well known among both students and faculty. Superintendent Andrew Linkenhoker released a heartfelt statement on Monday, expressing his condolences and outlining efforts to provide emotional support during this difficult time.
“The sorrow of losing a student is always challenging,” Linkenhoker said. “It is difficult on a personal level, recognizing the fragility of life, and it is equally challenging as an adult — we must support one another as the adults within the school community.”
Grief counselors and crisis response professionals are being made available throughout the week to help students and staff process the loss. Plans are also underway to create a school-based memorial event to celebrate Joshua’s life and provide students with an opportunity to share memories and say goodbye.
Remembering Joshua
Joshua Mizula-Samson’s passing leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. As the community rallies around the Mizula family, Joshua’s memory will live on through the lives he touched, the friendships he cherished, and the legacy of kindness and curiosity he leaves behind.
His mother, Ashley Mizula, summed it up simply but powerfully:
“He was my heart, my boy. I will miss him every single day.”
A funeral service is currently being arranged, with further details to be announced via the GoFundMe page and through local community channels. Those wishing to contribute can find the fundraiser under “Joshua Mizula-Samson Memorial Fund.”
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