On June 26, 2024, tragedy struck Rathbun Lake, sending shockwaves through a close-knit community. That evening, around 6:13 p.m., a frantic 911 call alerted authorities to a possible drowning at Buck Creek swimming beach.
When police arrived, they found a heartbreaking scene: Ayden Beeson, a 17-year-old high school student, was unconscious and struggling for life. Despite the best efforts of the emergency responders, Ayden could not be revived.
Ayden Beeson was a beloved figure in his community. He was not only the reigning Prom King but also a standout athlete and a cherished friend. His sudden death has left a cloud of mystery and sorrow hanging over the town.
The Appanoose County Sheriff quickly issued a press release detailing the events. The Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the Appanoose County Water Rescue team, launched a search for Ayden after he vanished underwater.
They recovered his body around 7:33 p.m. in 15 to 20 feet of water. The Appanoose County Medical Examiner pronounced Ayden dead at the scene. Now, the Iowa State Medical Examiner’s Office is helping to figure out what led to this tragic event.
Ayden was a prominent member of the Centerville School District. Superintendent Mark Taylor spoke about how much Ayden meant to the community. “He was a leader both on the football field and in the hallways of our school,” Taylor said. “Losing such a ‘great kid’ in his prime is devastating for everyone who knew him.”
In addition to his athletic achievements, Ayden was also voted Prom King before graduating in the spring. Taylor praised Ayden’s kindness and popularity, noting that he had worked for the school district during summers. “He was not only a star on the field but also a genuinely kind person,” Taylor explained.
To honor Ayden, the Centerville School District opened its doors on June 28, 2024, allowing the community to pay their respects. Darcie Whitlow, a crisis response counselor from the Great Prairie Education Agency, was present to support those affected. Whitlow emphasized the importance of having counselors available during such difficult times. “It’s crucial for people to have someone to talk to who is there just to listen and support them,” she said.
The outpouring of support from southeast Iowa was overwhelming. Schools in neighboring towns wore black and red, Centerville’s colors, to show their solidarity. “Even with rivalries on the sports fields, when a tragedy strikes, the community comes together,” Taylor noted.
The day after Ayden’s death, his coach, Tyler Baze, shared a moving tribute on Facebook. Alongside photos of Ayden, Baze reflected on what a privilege it was to coach him.
“Ayden was the only Big Red Tennis player in modern times to place in the top 6 in conference all four years of high school,” Baze wrote. “But beyond his athletic skills, his greatest quality was just being himself.”
Baze described Ayden as passionate, kind, and dedicated. “He was the one every coach and teacher loved,” Baze said. “He gave everything he had on the field, court, or in the classroom.” Baze ended his tribute with a heartfelt message: “I’m thankful for getting the opportunity to know such a person. RIP Ayden. Love, The Chain Tickler.”
The Centerville Community Schools also posted a tribute on their Facebook page, expressing their deep sadness over Ayden’s passing. They highlighted his role as a “genuinely kind” and respected member of the school community. “He was recognized by everyone for how he treated others with respect,” the district said.
Ayden had worked for the school district as a summer maintenance worker, preparing the school for the new school year. The district remembered him as a hard worker and someone who made a positive impression on everyone.
Another heartfelt tribute came from Ashley Edwards, a close family friend. Edwards shared a collection of photos and videos, describing how much Ayden would be missed. “So many tears have been shed for Ayden,” she wrote. “His loss has left a void in our lives.”
Edwards praised Ayden as “amazing” and said he was like family. “He treated our home as his own and was always willing to help,” she said. Edwards’ son, Carsyn, was featured in some of the photos with Ayden. She noted that Ayden had been a true friend to her family and that his loss would be felt forever.
Edwards expressed her hope for answers and reflected on the saying, “only the good die young.” She wished they had been there to prevent the tragedy and described the event as a “horrible bad dream.” Despite the pain, she promised that Ayden would never be forgotten and would be “forever missed.”
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