Matthew Coffroth, Jr. Death & Obituary: On Wednesday, August 14, 2024, the body of 10-year-old Matthew Coffroth, Jr. was discovered in Yellow Breeches Creek, Pennsylvania, marking a heartbreaking conclusion to a four-day search. The York County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the cause of death was accidental drowning.
The Incident: A Family Kayaking Trip Gone Wrong
Matthew Coffroth, Jr. was kayaking with his family on Yellow Breeches Creek when the tragic incident occurred. The group, which included four children and three adults, set off at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 10, with plans to kayak a mile-long stretch of the creek. However, shortly after beginning their journey, they encountered significant debris, primarily fallen trees and limbs. According to reports from Penn Live, this debris caused Coffroth, Jr. to be thrown from his kayak.
Despite immediate efforts to rescue him, Coffroth, Jr. disappeared beneath the water and was not seen again. The remaining seven members of the group managed to return safely to shore. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s spokesperson, Mike Parker, highlighted the dangers present in waterways, noting that submerged debris like trees and rocks can pose significant hazards, especially when water levels are lower.
Search and Recovery Efforts
The search for Matthew Coffroth, Jr. involved approximately 250 volunteers and professionals from two states and seven counties. Various fire and rescue agencies contributed to the extensive efforts to locate the missing boy. Fairview Township emergency management coordinator, Brandon Freistat, reported that the Coffroth family was deeply appreciative of the public’s support and the dedication of those involved in the search.
Rescue teams began searching a rubble pile on Tuesday, August 13, where they made progress in clearing the debris. Early on Wednesday morning, at 7:44 a.m., Coffroth, Jr. was found in that very rubble pile, nearly one mile from where he was last seen. Deputy Coroner Michele Kirchner arrived on the scene to investigate and confirm the cause of death. The York County Coroner’s Office did not request an autopsy.
Community Support and Ongoing Investigation
Following the tragic incident, the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from Fairview Township Police, launched an investigation. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission will continue to look into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was created to support the Coffroth family. As of the time of writing, the campaign had nearly reached its $25,000 goal, with donations totaling almost $24,000. The campaign’s description poignantly noted, “This is a gift that no family ever wants to receive, but easing the burden even in the slightest bit will go a long way.”
Conclusion
The tragic drowning of Matthew Coffroth, Jr. serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers that can lurk in seemingly peaceful waters. The community’s overwhelming response in both the search efforts and financial support demonstrates the strength and compassion of those who rallied around the Coffroth family in their time of need. As investigations continue, the memory of Matthew Coffroth, Jr. will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.