Ellington Teen Killed in Rafting Accident

An Ellington student was killed in a white water rafting accident in upstate New York.

Deputies and rescue personnel from the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office in New York responded to the report of an adult male and a juvenile female in distress in the Espous Creek in Shandaken, NY around 11:15 a.m. on Saturday.

While authorities were able to rescue the male, they had to wait till water flow from a reservoir that goes into the creek could be turned off to reduce the current and water level before recovering the 14-year-old female.

The juvenile was identified as Jordyn Engler, a freshman at Ellington High School, WTNH reports. Superintendent of Ellington Schools Scott Nicol said Engler’s father has recovered from his injuries and is expected to travel back to Connecticut soon.

Counselors were available at Ellington High School from 10 a.m.-1p.m. for those in need. Counseling will also be available at Ellington schools on Tuesday, WFSB reports.

Engler was part of the Fierce All Stars Cheerleading Team based in Manchester.

“Our hearts are heavy during this time. Jordyn had a beautiful soul and we are all honored to have had the opportunity to have her in our lives,” the team posted on Facebook.

A memorial has been set up in Engler’s name to help the family with expenses and to make charitable donations to celebrate the teen’s life.

Image via Jordyn Engler Memorial