Bryce Ligutum, a student at St. John’s Preparatory School in Queens, has died. He was born on January 29, 2008, and passed away on June 28, 2026, at the age of 18.
The school shared the news in a post on its official Instagram account, describing Ligutum as someone who touched the lives of everyone around him with his bright smile, kind spirit and joyful energy.
The announcement quickly drew thousands of reactions, with over 4,700 likes and hundreds of comments from classmates, coaches, family, friends, and members of the local community.
A Viewing Service Set for Flushing
A viewing service will be held for Ligutum on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Frederick Funeral Home, located at 192-15 Northern Blvd in Flushing, New York.
The school extended an open invitation, welcoming all who wish to attend and celebrate his life.
The official cause of death has not been detailed publicly by the school or the family. Some social media users referencing the loss have pointed to reports of a motorcycle accident, though this has not been confirmed through an official statement or law enforcement report at this time.
Community Mourns and Shares Tributes
Comments on the tribute post reflect the impact Ligutum had on those around him. One coach at the school, identified online as coach_ced_sjp, offered prayers in the comment section, while others simply left prayer hand emojis or messages of condolence.
A family friend, Pattimarricco, wrote that the loss was extremely devastating and praised Ligutum as an amazing young man, while also offering prayers for his grandmother, whom she described as having endured many hardships.
Another commenter, kosta_galeas1098, wrote that he loved Ligutum, while spda._13 simply wrote, “RIP Brycey,” alongside a heart and dove emoji.
Local hairstylist hair_by_elizabethk called the news heartbreaking and offered prayers for everyone affected, adding that Ligutum was too young and gone too soon.
St. John’s Preparatory School is a private Catholic high school located in Astoria, Queens, known for its athletics programs and close-knit student community.
News of Ligutum’s passing has spread quickly among students, alumni, and families connected to the school, many of whom described him as a dedicated and well-liked member of the student body.
As of now, no further details have been released regarding funeral arrangements beyond the scheduled viewing, and it remains unclear whether a separate funeral mass or burial service will be held. Family members have asked that the community keep Ligutum and his loved ones in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available. Anyone with information about the circumstances surrounding Ligutum’s death is encouraged to reach out through appropriate channels, as no official report has been made public at this time.
