A tragic incident unfolded at Glasmann Pond in Utah, leading to the death of a 14-year-old boy who fell through the icy waters. The Ogden Police Department received a distress call at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 27, prompting an emergency dive team to rush to the scene. Two other teens who were fishing nearby reported hearing cries for help and witnessing the boys’ plunge into the freezing water. Quick-thinking, they called 911 and used their fishing rods in a brave attempt to rescue the boys, managing to pull one out successfully.
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Despite efforts to save the boys, one of them was treated for mild hypothermia at a local hospital while the other remained trapped in the water until 6:50 p.m. Lt. Will Farr confirmed that the second teen was taken to the hospital before being transported to Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City. Tragically, the medical team’s life-saving measures were not enough to save the boy, who eventually succumbed to the incident. While the local authorities have not released the names of the teens involved, family members identified the victim as Samuel Creel, a ninth-grader at South Ogden Junior High School.
Samuel Creel was described as a “loving big brother” who had a passion for video games, computers, and the outdoors, according to his grieving family. His aunt shared a heartfelt message on a fundraising page set up to support his family, expressing the profound shock and sorrow felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing and loving Sammy. In a poignant moment, the boy’s mother, Liana Larsen, lamented the loss, saying, “I’m going to miss him so much.” The family revealed that Samuel had autism, adding another layer of sadness to the tragic incident.
Reflecting on the heartbreaking turn of events, Creel’s stepfather, Nathan Gidley, expressed regret at not intervening when Samuel left home that day. The family had no inkling that the casual outing would lead to such a devastating outcome. The community is reeling from the loss of a young life cut short, with the aftermath of the incident serving as a somber reminder of the importance of water safety, especially during the winter months. The sorrowful incident has left a profound impact on all those connected to Samuel Creel, underscoring the fragile nature of life and the need for vigilance around bodies of water, particularly when they are frozen over.
As the investigation continues and the community mourns the loss of a promising teenager, the tragedy underscores the importance of safety precautions and vigilance around icy bodies of water. The heartbreaking loss of Samuel Creel serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the need for heightened awareness when engaging in outdoor activities, particularly during the winter season. The family’s poignant recollections of Samuel as a beloved son and brother further highlight the profound impact of his passing on those who knew him. The incident at Glasmann Pond has left a deep sense of sadness and reflection in its wake, prompting conversations about water safety and the need for caution in similar environments.