14-year-old boy drowns at Wisconsin Church Camp

A 14-year-old boy from the Chicago area who drowned while he was at a church camp in Wisconsin last week remembered for his kindness and compassion.

John Ciesniewski, a pastor with Community Christian Church in Plainfield, Ill., And a friend of the family, identified the victim as Langston Britton in a Gofundme Created after the boy’s death.

The incident occurred on Friday, July 25 at Silver Birch Ranch, a Christian camp in White Lake, Wis., Around 13:15 local time. According to a News notice Shared by the camp was the boy on Silver Birch Ranch with his youth group as he went underwater while swam in a designated swimming area and never resumed.

Life guards arrived immediately to the scene and found and recovered the boy from the lake, said Silver Birch Ranch, leaving that CPR and life -saving measures were administered on the victim until emergency recipients arrived. A rescue helicopter was also placed.

NBC Affiliate WMAQ reported that the police responded to a call about a possible drowning at Sawyer Lake in the Wolf River.

“Despite the rapid and dedicated efforts for our staff and emergency recipients, the young man died tragically away. His family was announced through their church,” shared the camp in their publishing.

“We ask for prayers for the family, the church’s youth group and everyone in the camp during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement ended later.

It is not mentioned in the camp’s news message about an investigation into the incident. People contacted Langled County Sheriff’s Office for information on Wednesday, July 30.

In Gofundme created on behalf of Langston’s family, Ciesniewski described what happened as a “tragic drowning accident.”

“Langston lived a life characterized by grace, curiosity, faith and compassion. He loved God sincerely and served others with kindness and humility,” Ciesniewski said. “His laughter, his questions, his hugs and his presence gave warmth and joy to every room he went into. He had a unique way to make people feel, heard and deeply valued – and mentioned us all the beauty found in simply to show up with love.”

According to one obituaryLangston was from Romeoville, ill. Media reports Please note that he was 14 years old.

“Although his time on earth was heartbreaking cards, Langston’s impact was eternal,” the pastor wrote on Gofundme. “He taught us to love deeper, to forgive more freely and to live with courage and wonder. His smile was unforgettable. His faith unsurpassage.”

In a message to parents shared with WMAQ, Romeoville High School said that Langston planned to go to school this fall.

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“Langston was known for his thoughtful heart, compassion, strong work ethics and kindness,” reads Romeoville High School’s message partly. “He will be deeply missed by his many friends, family members and everyone who knew him. When we sadden this deep loss, we encourage families to talk to their children and offer support if needed.”

Ciesniewski wrote that money collected through Gofundme for the family will pay for funeral and memory costs and support services. People have contacted Ciesniewski for comments.