Upper Arlington, OH – The community of Upper Arlington is mourning the devastating and untimely loss of 13-year-old Carter Edell, an eighth-grade student at Hastings Middle School whose passing earlier this week has left an unfillable void in the hearts of classmates, teachers, family, and friends.

Carter was known not just as a student, but as a source of joy, laughter, and connection. His vibrant personality, compassionate heart, and infectious humor made a lasting impact on everyone around him. Those who knew Carter describe him as a shining light — the kind of person who made you feel seen, included, and valued.

A Bright Light in the Classroom and Beyond

Carter brought energy and joy into every space he entered. Whether it was cracking a joke during lunch, helping a classmate with schoolwork, or cheering on his peers in extracurriculars, he lived each day with enthusiasm and heart. His teachers remember him as a curious, thoughtful, and kind young man who was always ready with a smile.

“He made our days brighter,” said one of his teachers. “Carter had this way of lifting everyone up just by being himself. He was the kind of student you never forget.”

Friends recall his clever sense of humor, his adventurous spirit, and his willingness to include others — no matter who they were. To his classmates, he wasn’t just a friend — he was family.

A Community Grieving Together

The entire Hastings Middle School community has come together in the wake of Carter’s passing, offering support, shared memories, and quiet moments of grief. Grief counselors have been made available for students and staff, and a special memorial space has been created within the school for those who wish to reflect and honor his memory.

A candlelight vigil is planned for the coming weekend, followed by a memorial service on school grounds where friends, family, and neighbors will gather to celebrate Carter’s life and the impact he made during his short time here.

Remembering Carter with Love and Purpose

Though his life was far too brief, Carter’s legacy is one of kindness, connection, and love — qualities that will live on through the lives he touched. His family has expressed their deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and has asked that Carter be remembered by continuing the compassion he so naturally embodied.

In a world often hurried and distant, Carter had the rare gift of making people feel like they mattered. It is that legacy — of laughter, kindness, and a heart full of love — that his community now carries forward.

Rest in peace, Carter Edell.
Your light may no longer shine in the hallways of Hastings, but it lives on in every heart you touched. You will never be forgotten.