Tragedy Strikes Albany as Two Children Lose Their Lives in Ice Accident
A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Albany, New York, on December 7, 2024, when two children lost their lives after falling through thin ice at Washington Park Lake. The victims were a 12-year-old boy and an 11-year-old girl, whose lives were tragically cut short in an act of bravery and friendship.
According to police, the boy attempted to cross the frozen lake to reach the lake house, but the ice wasn’t strong enough to support his weight, and he fell in. In a desperate and courageous act, the girl tried to rescue him, but she, too, fell through the ice.
Emergency services rushed to the scene at around 4:35 p.m. and were able to pull the girl from the water. She was quickly transported to Albany Medical Center Hospital. Despite their best efforts, she passed away on December 10 due to her injuries.
During a second search, the New York State Police underwater recovery team found and recovered the boy’s body.
In a statement, the Albany Police Department expressed their sorrow: “The Albany Police Department extends its heartfelt condolences and support to the families and friends of both children during this difficult time.” Because of their ages, the names of the children have not been released to the public.
Both children were students at North Albany Middle School, part of the City School District of Albany. After the boy’s death, the school district sent a message to students and staff, offering crisis services to help them cope with the tragic loss. Once the girl passed away, the district shared additional resources to support the grieving community.
Superintendent Joseph Hochreiter shared a heartfelt message with the community (via WNYT): “Our school community was heartbroken yet again Tuesday to learn that the second North Albany Middle School student involved in Saturday’s tragic accident in Washington Park has died.
Our hearts go out to the family of this student, who gave their life trying to save their friend. We will remember that selfless courage even as we mourn another unimaginable loss.”
In response to the incident, the city of Albany has installed “Keep Off the Ice” signs at Washington Park to help prevent any future accidents. Mayor Kathy Sheehan spoke to the dangers of walking on frozen lakes, especially with ice that was not thick enough to support anyone’s weight.
“Two young people ventured out onto the ice. It was very thin. It was shocking they made it as far out into the lake as they did,” Sheehan said. She urged the community to stay vigilant, stressing the importance of safety.
“It’s just a reminder of how fragile life can be and how important it is that we ensure that our children and everyone in our community know venturing out onto the ice is not safe.”
This devastating accident has shaken the Albany community, leaving families, friends, and classmates mourning the loss of two young lives, especially during what is usually a joyful time of year. The tragedy has touched the hearts of many, reminding us all how precious life is and how quickly things can change.
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