Background:    March 24, 2007 began as a day like any other day. Unfortunately, tragedy takes only a split second to strike.

 4-year-old Matthew Longsworth was playing in the front yard of his family’s home with his two older brothers while their father worked in the garage. When no one was looking, Matthew snuck into his dad’s truck and managed to get it in gear, which sent the vehicle rolling down the sloped driveway.

It’s still not known if little Matthew jumped or fell out of the truck, but either way he was struck by the tires and died that same afternoon in the hospital.

The family decided to take their personal loss and began looking for a way to remember their son and also give children a safe place to play. Matthew’s cousin, Evonne Tirado, came up with the idea for a park in his memory after reading an article about the danger of kids and cars while she was a student at Silverado High School.

Matthew’s family has now made it their mission to honor him by building a new public playground in his memory. They have held various fundraising events, including yard sales, restaurant events, concerts and the sale of bracelets and T-shirts that read, “MATTHEW’S PLAYGROUND.”

The Longsworths don’t have a specific location yet, but according to Mrs. Longsworth, “The City of Victorville is willing to donate the property as long as we provide the playground. If building this playground can save just one family from going through this tragedy that my family is going through would be so worth it.” The family is looking to raise upwards of $20,000 to move the project forward, according to paperwork provided by the City of Victorville. But the entire family is determined to see their dream realized. “It’s going to get built,” Isabel Longsworth said.

 Upcoming Events:        None at this time

Donate to Matthew’s Playground