Boy, 9, killed when goal post collapses at soccer practice

NEW YORK -- A young boy died in a freak accident at a soccer practice Sunday in New York City.

Tommaso Cerase, 9, was killed when a goal post collapsed at a school, police said. The child was practicing with Juventus Academy, a church group that uses Park West High School at 525 West 50th Street for indoor soccer.

It was a tragedy that strikes at the heart of every parent - how one freak accident can turn a beautiful day into a crushing nightmare. Police say Tommaso was hanging on the goal post when it collapsed, striking him in the head.

Paramedics tried valiantly to save Tommaso, but he was pronounced dead at the hospital.

"They were pumping his chest, but he was unresponsive," said one eyewitness.

On behalf of the grieving family, a statement was released to the Daily News saying, "Today our dearest son passed away in an unfortunate incident at his soccer practice. He was full of life and joy."

Eyewitness News reached out to the soccer academy to learn more about the fatal accident. The New York City Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death.