Eastern Pennsylvania TWP, Pennsylvania – A 12-year-old boy from New York State has died after a rafting accident on the Lehigh River in Carbon County, Pennsylvania.
The Sag Harbor School District identified the child as Cesar Albarracín Goncai, a sixth-grader.
The incident occurred during the class’s annual trip to the Poconos, Superintendent Jeff Nichols said in a letter to parents.
“On behalf of the entire district, we extend our deepest condolences to Cesar’s family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time,” Nichols said in the statement. “We ask our community to honor Cesar’s memory and keep his family in our thoughts.”
A large group was rafting on Wednesday around 5pm when the raft capsized.
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The 12-year-old had already been pulled from the water before the deputy coroner arrived, the coroner’s office said. The child was pronounced dead at the scene.
Drone video showed a raft upside down and hanging from a fallen tree in the river. Police can also be seen near the Bowmanstown boat ramp off Bowman Road near Rt. 895 bridge.
Nichols said school counselors will be available to students and staff.
“There are no words to adequately express the depth of this loss,” Nichols said. “Cesar was a cherished member of our school family, a child who meant so much to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.” “His absence will leave an irreplaceable space in our classrooms, in our hallways and in our lives.”
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