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Student Mourns Boating Tragedy Before Graduation
11 Jun
Summary
- A 17-year-old student died in a boating incident before graduation.
- The student was remembered for his academic achievements and future career plans.
- A memorial was established at the school with tributes from peers and family.
Students at D.P. Todd Secondary School are grieving the loss of 17-year-old Tre Townsend, who tragically died in a boating incident on a local lake southeast of Prince George. The incident occurred just one week before he was scheduled to receive his diploma. Townsend is remembered as a well-liked student who diligently completed his Grade 12 credentials by Grade 11 and was poised to enter a career in trades.
Townsend was on a pre-prom fishing trip on Stony Lake with friends when the boat he was piloting capsized. While three passengers reached shore, Townsend was not recovered until Wednesday by a police underwater recovery team. The school district confirmed that Friday's graduation ceremony will proceed, with consultations underway to include a tribute to Townsend. Grief support, including school counselors and quiet rooms, has been made available for students.
A memorial featuring flowers and messages has been established outside the school, alongside sports equipment representing Townsend's interests. His foster father shared details of Townsend's ambitious goals for the future, highlighting his focus on personal development and career planning. The family has expressed that Townsend significantly impacted those around him.
