Rare Americans have released a new song called “Carson” which was inspired by the heartbreaking death of Carson Crimeni at just 14 years old.

In a statement, the band shared their desire to release the song in Carson’s memory.

Sometimes, we must hit pause on the trivial things and focus on matters of the heart. This Sunday, July 2nd, would have marked the 18th birthday of a special young soul, Carson Crimeni.

Unfortunately, he was taken from us prematurely on August 7, 2019. A heartbreaking incident, all the more poignant as it took place just 30 minutes from our home. We’ve created a music video in Carson’s honor, a tribute to him and his family, touched as we are by his story.

It’s hard to express this without a heavy heart, but if we can save or even transform a single life by using our platform for good, we firmly believe that it’s worth it.

Here’s the unvarnished truth.

Carson, yearning for friends and acceptance, was taken in by a group of older teens. He unwittingly became their punching bag, derided as “Crackhead Carson”. On the fateful day of August 7th, these kids invited him to a local skate park to try Ecstasy. Eager to fit in, Carson complied. What happened next was no less than a disaster – not one, but over 10 pills were forced into Carson’s hand. Not for fun or out of friendship, but for a sadistic Snapchat spectacle. Whether these teens knew the consequences of their actions, we can’t say. But the outcome was devastating; Carson began to overdose. Instead of seeking help, they fled the scene, leaving Carson in his darkest hour.

Carson’s story is one of the most heart-wrenching we’ve ever encountered. It’s a cry for justice for Carson, a good-hearted hockey player who just sought friendship and acceptance. Through this music video, we aim to awaken everyone to the horrific consequences of bullying. It’s a plea to you all – if you witness such behavior, step up, intervene, and speak out before it’s too late.

This video is for Carson. Your spirit lives on. We love you brother. 

Carson was just 14 years old when he overdosed while being bullied by a group of older teens. Read his story here.