More fundraisers set up for student killed in crash

There are numerous ways to help the family of Ayden Stahl, who died in a dirt bike accident over the weekend.

In the days since 16-yearold Ayden Stahl’s death, the California Area community has responded the only way it knows how: by coming together to grieve, remember and support his family.

What began as shock following the Friday night tragedy has quickly turned into a coordinated outpouring of support, with local fire departments, school groups and youth organizations organizing fundraisers, meals and memorial efforts in Stahl’s name.

Stahl, a California Area School District student, died early Saturday after a dirt bike crash involving a fallen tree near Adamson Stadium during severe weather, according to California Police Chief Jim Smith, who described the incident as a tragic accident.

Now attention has turned to helping those closest to him.

A family member, Edwin Barrett, shared funeral arrangements and a message of gratitude and reflection as the community continues to rally.

Viewing will be held from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday at the Roscoe Volunteer Fire Company, with a service scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday.

“As many of you already know, this past Friday evening our grandson and brother, Ayden Stahl, went home,” Barrett wrote. “While the funds and food are extremely helpful, our request above all else is that we all remember Ayden by living honorable and righteous lives, as he demonstrated on a daily basis.”

Barrett also shared a MealTrain page, giving those looking to help another way the opportunity to provide meals for the family in the coming days. To join the meal train, go to https://mealtrain.com/ l31zm4.

Support efforts will begin today during a California Area High School track and field scrimmage, where boosters will collect donations at the concession stand. The team will continue those efforts during the Twilight Invitational March 27, when proceeds from a 50/50 drawing will be donated to the family.

Local firefighters are also stepping in.

Donations will be collected by the California Fire Department during a fish fry Friday, with all contributions placed in a boot designated for the Stahl family.

That effort will continue with a larger boot drive fundraiser by the Roscoe Volunteer Fire Company scheduled from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday.

Firefighters will collect donations along Route 88 in front of the Roscoe VFC and at the top of Elco Hill, giving residents multiple opportunities to contribute.

The Roscoe VFC is also organizing a bingo benefit March 28 at the fire hall. Doors will open at 2 p.m., with bingo beginning at 5 p.m.

Admission is $25, and organizers say the event will feature regular and special games, including larger jackpot prizes, along with a basket auction and food available for purchase.

All proceeds will go directly to the family, with even tips collected by volunteers being donated.

Community members have already begun showing up in support.

California Youth Basketball collected donations during events earlier this week and plans to continue its efforts, placing a firefighter’s boot at the entrance during games to allow attendees to contribute.

“The untimely passing of one of our very own … has hit our hearts hard,” the organization wrote. “At times like this a lot of people want to be able to help in any way possible.”

Donations will also be accepted for the family this weekend when students take the stage for rescheduled performances of “Mary Poppins.”

Danielle Grodz, administrator for the California Area Drama Club’s social media page, said it is important for the community to offer assistance.

“Our Trojan family has always come together with care and compassion in times of loss,” she wrote. “Over the weekend, our district suffered a heartbreaking loss. During each performance of Mary Poppins next weekend, the 50/50 proceeds collected by our Play Boosters will be donated to the family of Ayden Stahl. If you attend the show, please consider giving if you are able. Thank you for helping us come together to show our support during this difficult time. Please continue to keep Ayden’s family, friends and our district community in your thoughts and hearts.”

While fundraisers continue to take shape, many say the response displays more than generosity. It reflects the kind of impact Stahl had on those around him.

Family members described Ayden as a young man whose character stood out, pointing to faith and kindness as defining parts of his life.

“Do to others what you would have them do to you,” Barrett wrote, citing a Bible verse he said captured the essence of his grandson.

For many in the community, the growing list of fundraisers is not just about financial support, it is about showing up, being present and honoring a life remembered as thoughtful and well-lived.

Organizers say that spirit has been evident in every donation, shared post and planned event.

“Our community has always taken pride in looking out for one another,” the Roscoe Volunteer Fire Company wrote. “Right now, our community is rallying together.”