The community of Appleton, Wisconsin, is mourning the tragic loss of 16-year-old Jacob Hackl, a sophomore at Xavier High School, who passed away following a devastating accident earlier this week. Jacob died on the evening of May 27, 2025, after sustaining life-threatening injuries in an incident involving a vehicle.
According to the Appleton Police Department, the accident occurred in the early hours of Monday, May 26, when Jacob was riding on the exterior of a vehicle. Responding officers found him on the ground with critical injuries.
He was initially transported to a local hospital in Neenah and later airlifted to Children’s Hospital in Milwaukee. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, Jacob succumbed to his injuries the following evening.
Jacob was known for his vibrant personality and was a beloved member of the Xavier High School community. His untimely passing has left a profound impact on his classmates, teachers, and the broader Appleton community.
In the wake of the tragedy, St. Pius X Catholic Church held a mass attended by nearly 1,000 people, where parishioners gathered to pray for a miracle and support Jacob’s family.
Father Jim Jugenheimer, pastor at St. Pius X, addressed the congregation, emphasizing the community’s shared grief and the importance of faith, hope, and love during such difficult times.
“We’re here tonight because of faith. We’re here tonight because of hope. And we’re here tonight because of love. Our love for Jacob and for his family,” he said.
Xavier High School has provided counselors on-site to support students and staff as they cope with the loss. The school community is coming together to honor Jacob’s memory and support one another during this challenging period.
The Appleton Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. As of now, it remains unclear if any charges will be filed in connection with the incident. The department has not released additional information, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Jacob’s passing serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community support in times of tragedy. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
For those wishing to pay their respects, a memorial service will be announced by the family in the coming days. The community is encouraged to come together to celebrate Jacob’s life and offer support to his loved ones during this difficult time.
In honor of Jacob’s memory, the family has requested that donations be made to local youth programs, reflecting his passion for community involvement and helping others. Details on how to contribute will be shared through official channels as they become available.
As Appleton mourns the loss of one of its own, the outpouring of love and support stands as a testament to the impact Jacob had on those around him. His spirit will continue to inspire acts of kindness and unity within the community.
