A heartbreaking tragedy struck Albany, New York, on December 7, 2024, when two young children lost their lives after falling through thin ice at Washington Park Lake. The incident involved a brave 12-year-old boy and an 11-year-old girl, and it has left the community in shock and sorrow.
According to police reports, the boy was trying to cross the frozen lake to reach a nearby lake house when he suddenly fell through the ice. Seeing her friend in trouble, the girl acted quickly and fearlessly jumped in to save him, but she, too, fell into the icy water.
Their friendship was strong, and she couldn’t stand by while he was in danger.
Emergency services rushed to the scene around 4:35 p.m. and worked hard to rescue the girl from the freezing water. She was quickly transported to Albany Medical Center Hospital, but tragically, she succumbed to her injuries on December 10.
During a secondary search for the boy, the New York State Police underwater recovery team sadly recovered his body from the lake.
The Albany Police Department released a heartfelt statement, saying, “The Albany Police Department extends its heartfelt condolences and support to the families and friends of both children during this difficult time.” Due to their young ages, the names of the children have not been made public, which adds to the community’s sense of loss.
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 quickly released a statement informing students and staff about available crisis services for those who needed support.
Following the girl’s passing, the district provided even more resources to help the grieving school community cope with their heartbreaking loss.
Superintendent Joseph Hochreiter shared his feelings in a touching message, saying, “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 this tragic incident, the city took immediate action by installing “Keep Off the Ice” signs around Washington Park to prevent any further accidents. Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan emphasized the dangers of walking on frozen bodies of water, especially since the ice was so thin. “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,” she explained. She urged the community to stay alert and cautious, adding, “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.”
The tragic loss of these two young lives has left the Albany community mourning during what is usually one of the happiest times of the year. Families are coming together to remember the joy and laughter these children brought into the world, and many are sharing stories of their kindness and bravery.
As the community grieves, they are reminded of the importance of safety, friendship, and the impact of every life lost too soon. The legacy of these two children will live on in the hearts of those who knew them, and their story serves as a powerful reminder of the love and bravery that can exist even in the face of tragedy.
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