EVANS, NY (WKBW) — The Town of Evans Police Department is investigating after a 15-year-old from Forestville drowned at Lake Erie Beach Park.
Police said officers responded to the incident around 3:30 p.m. on July 3 after receiving a report that a 15-year-old male reportedly went underwater and did not resurface. The teen was located and was removed from the water by lifeguards, who immediately began life-saving measures until additional emergency personnel arrived. The teen was then transported to Mercy Hospital for treatment.
In a social media post on July 4, the Forestville Central School District announced that Sky Hahn, a member of its incoming 10th-grade class, was involved in a drowning accident at Lake Erie Beach Park and "could not be saved."
Dr. John O’Connor, Superintendent of Schools, continued in his statement to say, "Sky was a valued member of the Forestville family, and his loss will be deeply felt by classmates, friends, faculty, staff, and all who knew him. We ask our entire community to keep Sky's family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time."
WATCH: Forestville Central School District student drowns at Lake Erie Beach Park in Evans
A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist Hahn's family.
"On July 3, 2026, Sky Hahn was tragically taken from this world while swimming in Lake Erie at just 15 years old," the GoFundMe reads. "His loss has shattered his family, friends, and our entire small-town community. This is any parent’s worst nightmare, bringing unexpected costs that a family should never have to prepare for."
The organizer is asking for donations to help the family cover memorial services, cremation expenses, and "the many other financial burdens that come with such a sudden loss."
Additionally, those close to the family have asked that Forestville residents light their porches in blue light to pay tribute to Sky, as blue was his favorite color.
You can read the full statement the district released below:
"An important message from Forestville Central School District:
Dear Forestville families:
It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic news of the passing of Forestville High School student Sky Hahn, a member of our incoming 10th grade class. Sky was involved in a drowning accident at Lake Erie Beach Park. Despite the incredible efforts of the lifeguards and emergency responders, Sky could not be saved.
There are no words that can fully express the sadness our school community feels. Sky was a valued member of the Forestville family, and his loss will be deeply felt by classmates, friends, faculty, staff, and all who knew him. We ask our entire community to keep Sky's family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
Forestville High School will be open on Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for students, families, faculty, staff, and community members who wish to come together. Grief counselors and members of the local clergy will be available to provide comfort, support, and a listening ear.
In moments like these, we are reminded that Forestville is more than a school—it is a family. Let us continue to care for one another, extend grace and compassion, and hold one another close as we mourn the loss of one of our own.
Sincerely,
Dr. John O’Connor
Superintendent of Schools"
