CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — The Citrus County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) confirmed a second teenager has died after a hand-dug hole collapsed on Jan. 11.
Deputies said they received a non-urgent call shortly before 1 p.m. on Jan. 11, after a report that two juveniles were lost in the park and possibly trapped inside a large hole.
Fire crews found the first teenager shortly after 1 p.m. and the second at 1:17 p.m., according to officials.
CPR was started for both juveniles, who were then taken to the hospital, per the report.
One teen, a 14-year-old, died from their injuries, and the other child was hospitalized in critical condition.
Officials confirmed the second teenager died at around 4:25 a.m. on Jan 13.
Tampa Bay 28's Jada Williams spoke with investigators and a neighbor on the day of the incident.
WATCH REPORT FROM JADA WILLIAMS
Tampa Bay 28's Annette Gutierrez reached out to Citrus County Schools and received official statements from the Principal of Inverness Middle School Rob Hermann and Superintendent Dr. Scott Herbert.
Statement from Inverness Middle School Principal Rob Hermann:
Dear Parents and Guardians,
It is with great sadness that we inform our Charger community of a tragedy that occurred over the weekend involving two of our students following an off-campus incident.
This situation has deeply affected many within our school and district community. In response, our district crisis support team—consisting of counselors, social workers, and school psychologists—is available on campus today and will continue to be available throughout the week. These team members are here to support students and families as we navigate this difficult time together.
We extend our heartfelt thoughts and support to the students, families, and all those impacted. Thank you for your care, compassion, and support for one another during this time.
Statement from Superintendent Dr. Scott Herbert:
Dear IMS Teachers and Staff,
I want to take a moment to reach out to you during this incredibly difficult time for your school community. The tragic events involving two of your students have deeply impacted all of us, and I know many of you are carrying the weight of this loss alongside your students.
Our district support team is on the IMS campus and will remain available throughout the week to support students, staff, and families. I encourage you to reach out to them if you need any support throughout this difficult time.
I am appreciative of the care, professionalism, and dedication each of you continue to show your students, especially during moments of grief and uncertainty. The relationships you have built make a meaningful difference in helping students feel supported.
Thank you for looking out for one another and for continuing to support each other with empathy and grace. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Mr. Hermann, Mrs. Lulenski, or Mrs. Cassidy if you need additional assistance.
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