The Tragic Death of Keoni Hubbard: A Boy Scout’s Dream Cut Short
Keoni Hubbard was a bright and cheerful 11-year-old boy who loved scouting, playing basketball, and spending time with his family and friends.
had just graduated from eighth grade at Clarke Middle School in Lexington, Massachusetts, and was looking forward to starting high school in the fall.
He had a birthday coming up on July 29, and he was excited to celebrate it with his loved ones.
But on July 9, 2023, Keoni’s life was tragically cut short by a boating accident on Manning Lake in Gilmanton, New Hampshire.
was attending a summer camp with his Boy Scout Troop 119 when the incident occurred.
According to New Hampshire State Police, Keoni was fatally injured in the accident and pronounced dead at the scene.
The details of the accident have not been released, but the police are investigating the case.
A Devastated Family and Community
Keoni’s family released a statement on July 11, identifying him as the victim of the accident and expressing their grief and sorrow.
“Our hearts are forever broken by the loss of our Keoni,” they wrote.
“Beloved by his family and friends, Keoni’s spirit and empathy for others resonated with all who love and admire him.
Keoni was simply the best – a selfless child who truly found joy in the happiness of others.”
Keoni’s mother, Starsha Groce, told WBZ-TV that her son had texted her before the accident, saying that he was playing basketball and that he would be home by 8 p.m.
said that he did nothing wrong and that he was just a kid having fun.
She also pleaded for anyone who had information about the accident to come forward and help bring justice to her son.
Keoni’s father, Curtis Hubbard Sr., was also killed in a violent incident 14 years ago.
He was stabbed to death in South Boston in 2008 while trying to stop a fight.
A Supportive Boy Scout Community
Keoni was an active member of the Boy Scout Troop 119 in Lexington, where he had many friends and mentors.
enjoyed camping, hiking, fishing, and learning new skills.
He had earned several badges and awards for his achievements and service.
He had also participated in several community projects, such as planting trees, collecting food donations, and cleaning up parks.
The Boy Scout community mourned Keoni’s death and offered their condolences to his family.
The Daniel Webster Council, which runs Boy Scouts of America in New Hampshire, confirmed Keoni’s death in a Facebook post on July 10.
“We offer our deepest condolences to the Scout’s family and ask everyone to please join in keeping this young man and his loved ones in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” they wrote.
The Lexington Boy Scout Troop 119 also posted a tribute to Keoni on their website, describing him as a “wonderful young man” who “loved, loved, loved scouting.”
They said that he was always smiling, helpful and respectful. They also shared some photos and videos of Keoni at various scouting events.
A Heartbroken School Community
Keoni was a student at Clarke Middle School in Lexington, where he had just finished eighth grade.
He was a good student who excelled in math and science.
He was also a talented basketball player who played for the school team.
had many friends and teachers who cared for him and admired him.
The Lexington Public Schools Superintendent Julie Hackett sent a message to the district’s families on July 10, informing them of Keoni’s death and offering support services.
She said that several other Clarke students witnessed the accident while attending the same summer camp.
She also said that the school district was working with grief counselors and other resources to help the affected students cope with the loss.
“Our hearts are with the victim’s family, as well as the Clarke school community and all those impacted by this tragic event,” Hackett wrote.
A Memorial Service for Keoni
A private memorial service for Keoni was held on July 11 at Hancock United Church of Christ in Lexington.
The service was attended by Keoni’s family, friends, classmates, teachers, and scout leaders.
They shared stories, memories, and prayers for Keoni.
sang songs that Keoni loved, such as “Amazing Grace” and “You Are My Sunshine.”
Rev. Susan Remick of Hancock United Church of Christ said that Keoni was a “beautiful soul” who touched many lives with his kindness and joy.
She said that the service was a way to honor Keoni’s life and legacy.
She also said that the community would continue to support each other through this difficult time.
“This is and will be a hard trail to take,” she said.
“We believe in walking with our brothers and sisters when they struggle and we are a community of faith that welcomes all no matter where they are on the path.”
A Legacy of Love and Hope
Keoni Hubbard was a boy who had a bright future ahead of him.
had dreams of becoming a scientist, an engineer, or a basketball player.
He had a loving family, a loyal scout troop, and a supportive school community.
He had a zest for life, a curiosity for learning, and a compassion for others.
Keoni’s death was a tragic and senseless loss that shocked and saddened many people.
But his life was also a source of inspiration and hope that will live on in the hearts and minds of those who knew him.
Sources:
1: https://www.wmur.com/article/boy-scout-died-gilmanton-nh-boating-accident-identified/44485758
2: https://www.nbcboston.com/news/local/family-of-beloved-mass-boy-scout-killed-in-nh-boat-accident-releases-statement/3085198/
3: https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2023/07/09/boy-scout-dies-boating-accident-new-hampshire-lexington-keoni-hubbard/
4: https://pkbnews.in/what-happened-to-keoni-hubbard-11-year-old-boy-dies-scouts-boating-accident/
5: https://thptlevantamsoctrang.edu.vn/keoni-hubbard-obituary-death-cause-by-boating-accident/
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