A 17-year-old high school senior drowns a couple of hours after his graduation while celebrating his milestone.
A high school senior from Coffeyville, Kansas, drowned just hours after his graduation, sending shockwaves through the community.
The 17-year-old, Alonzo Juan Juan, was celebrating his achievement with friends at Big Hill Lake in Labette County when the tragedy occurred on Saturday, May 18. The body of the teenager was searched throughout the lake and was later recovered by the rescue team later that evening.
Coffeyville High School Rallies to Support the 17-Year-Old's Family
After being aware of Juan's death, the community rallies behind the teen family, offering condolences and support for his sudden death.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with funeral, medical, and other expenses. Additionally, the funds will help cover the costs of transporting Juan back to his family in Guatemala, where he was originally from.
Donations are pouring in to support Juan's family during this difficult time. The fundraiser has already garnered over $5,600 towards its $27,000 goal.
The GoFundMe page reported that Juan was a student at Field Kindley High School. The page expressed the deep grief felt by many: "Many of us, like family, friends, [and] coworkers are deeply hurt with the news we received."
Remembering a Dedicated and Aspiring Student
Field Kindley High School confirmed Juan's passing, with administrators and teachers sharing their memories of the hardworking student.
Lisa Stockton, the district's ESL learning program director, highlighted Juan's dedication and determination.
She recalled how Juan entered the district in middle school knowing only his native Mayan language and praised his commitment to learning and integrating with his peers.
"It was a huge shock to us and our community," Stockton said. "He was very involved with the other students. It just proves that hard work and dedication and having goals is worthwhile. He was a perfect example of that."
Juan had dreams of becoming a doctor, as recounted by his former teacher, Shayla Reliford. Field Kindley High School honored Juan's memory with a Facebook post announcing a candlelight vigil to be held on Thursday in his honor.
An Outpouring of Love and Support
The tragic news has left a profound impact on the Coffeyville community.
The GoFundMe page reflects the love and admiration many felt for Juan: "He was born August 21, 2006, and he was loved by so many and touched lots of hearts with his kindness and sweet words. This isn't goodbye, it's see you later."
The fundraiser continues to seek support for Juan's family to help them through this tragic time and to fulfill the wish of returning Juan to Guatemala for his final resting place.
"Our family is needing help with donations for the funeral and transportation cost for Alonzo. He will be sent to his home to his family in Guatemala. The donation will be given to his Guardians Guillermo Miguel to have him moved back and be laid in peace."
As the community mourns the loss of a promising young life, the outpouring of support underscores the impact Juan had on those around him and the lasting legacy of his kindness and determination.
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