Tragic Rafting Accident Claims Life of 12-Year-Old New York Boy on Class Trip in Pennsylvania

In a sorrowful turn of events, a young boy from New York tragically lost his life in a rafting accident on the Lehigh River in Carbon County, Pennsylvania. The unfortunate incident involved a 12-year-old named Cesar Albarracin Guncay, a sixth-grader from the Sag Harbor School District.

The accident took place during a school trip to the Poconos, a tradition for the students. Superintendent Jeff Nichols shared the devastating news in a heartfelt letter to parents, expressing deep condolences on behalf of the district. “We extend our deepest condolences to Cesar’s family and loved ones during this extraordinarily difficult time,” Nichols conveyed. “We ask our community to honor Cesar’s memory and keep his family in our thoughts.”

The tragic event unfolded on Wednesday around 5 p.m. when a large group of students was enjoying a rafting excursion. The fun turned into a nightmare when the raft unexpectedly flipped over.

Sadly, by the time the deputy coroner arrived, Cesar had already been pulled from the water. He was pronounced dead at the scene, marking a heartbreaking end to what was meant to be an enjoyable outing. The community now rallies to support Cesar’s family, offering their thoughts and prayers during this unimaginable loss.

A large group was rafting Wednesday around 5 p.m. when the raft flipped over.

The coroner’s office said the 12-year-old had already been removed from the water before the deputy coroner’s arrival. The child was pronounced dead at the scene.

Drone video showed a raft overturned and pinned against a fallen tree in the river. Police could also be seen near the Bowmanstown boat ramp off Bowman Road near the Rt. 895 bridge.

Nichols said school counselors will be available for students and staff.

“There are no words to adequately express the depth of this loss. Cesar was a cherished member of our school family, a child who mattered deeply to all who had the privilege of knowing him,” Nichols said. “His absence will leave an irreplaceable space in our classrooms, our hallways and our lives.”