A heartbreaking tragedy struck the Ringgold School District community as 12-year-old Rontae Lester, a beloved student, was found dead following a drowning accident in the Monongahela River on May 26. The young boy’s untimely death has left his family, friends, and classmates in deep mourning, as they try to come to terms with the sudden loss of such a bright and joyful young life.
Rontae, a 7th grader at Ringgold Middle School, was reported missing after he went swimming in the Monongahela River, located near a popular local recreational area. According to authorities, Rontae had been spending time with friends when the incident occurred. When Rontae did not resurface after swimming, his friends immediately raised the alarm. A search operation was swiftly launched, with emergency responders, local authorities, and volunteer rescue teams working tirelessly to locate the boy.
After several hours of intense search efforts, Rontae’s body was recovered from the river, around 4:30 p.m. on the same day. The discovery came as a devastating blow to his family and friends, who had been anxiously waiting for news of his whereabouts.
Authorities have stated that preliminary investigations indicate no foul play was involved in the incident. The cause of death is believed to be drowning, although an official autopsy is being conducted to confirm the details. At this time, it is unclear whether the strong current or other environmental factors contributed to the tragedy.
Rontae’s family, who had been anxiously waiting for any sign of him during the search, was left grief-stricken when they received the heartbreaking news. In a statement released by his family, they expressed their devastation and asked for privacy during this incredibly difficult time. “Our hearts are shattered,” the family said. “Rontae was a loving, energetic, and kind-hearted boy. He brought joy to everyone he met, and we will miss him deeply. Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Rontae’s classmates and friends, who had known him for years, have been deeply affected by the loss. “He was always smiling, always there to lend a hand or make someone laugh,” said one of his classmates. “He was one of the most caring kids I knew, and it’s so hard to believe he’s gone.” Teachers and school staff at Ringgold Middle School have also expressed their sorrow, remembering Rontae as a bright student with a love for learning and a passion for sports. “Rontae had a heart of gold,” said his school principal. “He was a student who brought light into the classroom, and his presence will be missed by everyone who knew him.”
In the wake of this tragedy, the community has come together to support Rontae’s family. A memorial service is being planned by local leaders and the Ringgold School District to honor his life and legacy. Friends and loved ones are also organizing a fundraiser to assist with funeral expenses and provide support to the family during this difficult time.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by family members to help cover funeral costs and support the Lester family as they navigate the emotional and financial challenges following Rontae’s sudden passing. The page has already received an outpouring of support from local residents, schoolmates, and community members, all of whom are rallying to help the family in their time of need.
Local authorities have urged the public to be aware of the potential dangers of swimming in the Monongahela River and other bodies of water, especially during the warmer months when recreational activities are at their peak. Officials are encouraging families to always swim in designated areas, under supervision, and to adhere to safety precautions to prevent further accidents.
As the community of Ringgold mourns the loss of Rontae Lester, they remember him as a boy full of promise, who touched the hearts of those around him with his infectious smile, positive attitude, and kind spirit. Though his life was tragically cut short, his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, classmates, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The Ringgold School District has announced plans to provide counseling services for students and staff affected by the tragedy, ensuring that the community has the support needed to cope with the profound loss.
In the days ahead, the community will continue to honor Rontae’s memory, holding his family close in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate the immense pain of this heartbreaking loss.
The post Rontae Lester Drowning Accident; 12-year-old Ringgold School District Student Found Dead in Monongahela River first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
The post Rontae Lester Drowning Accident; 12-year-old Ringgold School District Student Found Dead in Monongahela River first appeared on Voxtrend News.
