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ITHACA, Wis. — The Ithaca community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Briggs Maxwell, a freshman at Ithaca High School and member of the school’s varsity football team, who reportedly died Thursday, August 27, 2026, after suffering fatal injuries in a farming accident in the Town of Ithaca.
According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred shortly after 7 a.m. Maxwell was reportedly seriously injured by a skid loader while working during the farming accident. He suffered a severe head injury and later died as a result of his injuries.
His unexpected passing has left family members, friends, classmates, teammates, coaches, and the entire Ithaca school community grieving the loss of a young life with so much ahead of him.
Remembering Briggs Maxwell
Briggs Maxwell was remembered as a student-athlete who made an impact through his involvement at Ithaca High School and the school’s varsity football program. He played as a running back and linebacker, becoming a valued member of the team and forming connections with teammates and coaches.
For those who knew Briggs, his identity extended beyond football. He was a son, a classmate, a teammate, and a member of a community that is now facing the difficult reality of losing someone so young.
The loss has been especially painful for the Ithaca football family, as Briggs’ father serves as an assistant coach for the varsity football team. Teammates, coaches, and school staff are now supporting one another while remembering the moments and memories shared with Briggs.
School Community Responds to Loss
Following Briggs Maxwell’s death, the Ithaca School District released a statement expressing condolences to his family, friends, and classmates. School officials acknowledged the grief affecting the community and encouraged students, staff, and families to come together during this difficult time.
Counselors and support personnel were made available in the school gymnasium and classrooms to assist students and staff members affected by the tragedy.
The district also canceled several athletic activities, including Thursday evening and Friday events, as well as the scheduled Ithaca/Weston varsity football game against Wauzeka-Steuben. Ithaca varsity volleyball activities planned for Saturday were also canceled.
Officials stated that the cancellations were intended to allow students, staff, athletes, and the broader community time to grieve and support one another.
Investigation Into Briggs Maxwell’s Death
The Richland County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the farming accident.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding how the skid loader was involved or the exact events that led to Maxwell’s fatal injuries. Further information may become available as investigators continue reviewing the incident.
Until the investigation is complete, details surrounding the accident should be confirmed through official law enforcement statements.
Funeral and Memorial Arrangements
Information regarding Briggs Maxwell’s official obituary, funeral services, visitation, or memorial arrangements has not been released at this time.
The family will share additional details regarding services and remembrance plans when they are ready. Friends, classmates, teammates, and community members are encouraged to respect the privacy of Briggs’ loved ones as they navigate this devastating loss.
As Ithaca mourns the passing of Briggs Maxwell, condolences are extended to his family, friends, teammates, coaches, classmates, and everyone affected by his death.
Though his life was tragically cut short, the memories he created and the impact he made on those around him will continue to live on.
May Briggs Maxwell rest peacefully.
Forever remembered.
Never forgotten.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only and not all information is accurate. Details regarding Briggs Maxwell’s death, the farming accident investigation, cause of death, obituary, funeral arrangements, and memorial services should be confirmed through the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Ithaca School District, official family announcements, or authorized sources. The family will share additional obituary, funeral, and memorial details when available.
