Maine East High School reacts to death of 17-year-old student; funeral information

Richard Requena, Chicago Tribune
·2 min read
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A 17-year-old boy who was pronounced dead early Monday in Niles was a student at Maine East High School, the school confirmed as it sent out a letter to students and the school community. Visitation and funeral plans were also announced.

Angel Mata was hit by a vehicle in the early hours of Monday morning, according to Niles Police, and pronounced dead at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. Police said he had been lying in the street on Ballard Road before being struck.

Brett Clark, spokesperson for Maine Township High School District 207, confirmed to Pioneer Press that Mata was a senior at Maine East and said the high school is extending resources on dealing with grief to students and families.

In a letter sent to Maine East parents on Monday, Principal Melissa Pikul said her team spoke to and extended their love and support to people closest to Mata.

“Students were informed of this tragic news today during school. We made counseling support available today and we will continue to provide that support to any students in need of grief counseling. We have also prepared resources for families given this tragic news that might be helpful.” the letter said.

Maine East counselors are available for their students at their school’s website. Since 2022, students in Illinois have been allowed to take five excused absences for mental or behavioral health yearly.

“A loss such as this affects the entire Maine East family, and our thoughts, prayers and hearts are with the family and close friends of Angel at this time. As information is finalized with relation to services, we will share that information as well as any additional information to help people express their love and support.”

“On behalf of the Maine East family, please tell your child that we love them and care for them and that if you or your child needs anything during this difficult time, please let us know so that we can help,” the letter concluded.

A visitation for Mata was scheduled for Oct. 2 at Friedrichs Funeral Home in Mount Prospect from 3 to 6 p.m. A funeral Mass was scheduled for Oct. 3 at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe at 10 a.m., according to Mata’s obituary.