FALL RIVER, Mass. — A 17-year-old is dead after drowning in a Fall River pond.
According to the Bristol County District Attorney’s office, on Sunday around 9:30 p.m., police received a call that a boy had gone missing in South Watuppa Pond after struggling while swimming with friends
First responders launched an initial search but were unable to locate the teen.
State police divers found the teen around 11:35 p.m. in an area where visibility underwater was described as zero.
The 17-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene.
This DA says that three juveniles had gathered near South Watuppa Pond on Sunday evening. Two of them entered the water intending to swim to a floating dock. Investigators said the victim began struggling while swimming and never made it back to shore.
Boston 25 recieved a statement from Fall River Public Schools, who said the young student’s passing was heartbreaking.
“We woke up this morning to the heartbreaking news of the tragic loss of a 17-year-old on South Watuppa Pond. While his name has not yet been publicly released, we have received permission from his family to share that he was a former student of Fall River Public Schools. The sudden and unexpected death of a young person touches an entire community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all those who are grieving. Although Fall River is a city, we are also a close-knit community, and tragedies like this are felt by many of us, even those who may not have a direct connection to the young man. To support our students and staff during this difficult time, school counselors will be available tomorrow, Tuesday, July 14, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Counseling Hub, located near the Main Office at B.M.C. Durfee High School, for any Fall River Public Schools student or staff member who would like a safe space to talk, process their feelings, or receive support. Please keep his family and loved ones in your prayers.”
— Fall River Interim Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith
An investigation into the incident remains on going by Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.
Authorities said foul play is not suspected, and no additional information has been released.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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