FOUR OAKS, North Carolina — Austin “AJ” Paradise, a 12-year-old seventh-grade student at Four Oaks Middle School, has been reported to have died on Sunday, October 25, 2026, following an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accident. The news has prompted concern and sadness among those seeking information about the young student and the circumstances surrounding his reported passing.

The loss of a child can have a profound impact on family members, classmates, teachers, and the wider community. As people look for information about AJ, it is important to approach the news with compassion and ensure that details are supported by reliable sources.

Remembering Austin “AJ” Paradise

AJ was identified in the information provided as a seventh-grade student at Four Oaks Middle School in Four Oaks, North Carolina. At 12 years old, he was still in the early years of his education, with much of childhood and adolescence ahead of him.

Further details about his interests, personality, family, and the activities that mattered most to him have not been independently confirmed for this article. Memories and tributes shared by his family, friends, and school community could help provide a fuller picture of the young person being remembered.

His family and community have shared memories of a boy who enjoyed baseball, spending time outdoors, playing with friends, and making people laugh. He also enjoyed other sports, trips, playing PlayStation, creating YouTube and TikTok videos, and spending time around animals. Friends remembered him as a happy, energetic young person whose humor and friendships made him special to those around him.

What Happened to Austin “AJ” Paradise?

According to local reporting, AJ died following an ATV accident on Sunday afternoon, October 25, 2026, on Shaw’s Pond Road in southern Johnston County. The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office described the incident as a heartbreaking, unintentional tragedy. Further details about the circumstances of the crash were not provided in the reports reviewed.

Family and Community Support

AJ is survived by his mother, Lisa Paradise; his brother, Preston Paradise; his sister, Kyla Eskesen; his maternal grandmother, Patricia Paradise; and his paternal grandfather, Edward Eskesen, along with extended family members and many friends.

A candlelight vigil was held in Four Oaks on October 26, bringing together family, classmates, friends, and neighbors to share memories, pray, and support one another. Johnston County Public Schools also acknowledged the loss and said grief and crisis support would be available to students and staff at Four Oaks Middle School.

Funeral Arrangements and Celebration of Life

According to the family’s published obituary, a funeral service for Austin Jay Paradise is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Rose & Graham Funeral Home, 301 West Main Street, Benson, North Carolina. Visitation will follow the service.

Further details are available through the official obituary published by Rose & Graham Funeral Home.

A Life Remembered

Although AJ’s life ended far too soon, the memories shared by his family, classmates, and friends reflect the joy he brought to those around him. His love of baseball, his sense of humor, and the friendships he built remain part of the legacy those who knew him will carry forward.

As the Four Oaks community mourns, the focus remains on supporting his family and honoring his memory with compassion.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes. Details are based on the family’s published obituary and local reporting available as of October 28, 2026. Funeral arrangements should be confirmed with the funeral home in case of changes.