A Kentwood High School student died Wednesday morning, Feb. 7 in Covington from a “medical event.”
The King County Sheriff’s Office, which contracts with the City of Covington for police services, issued the following statement Thursday afternoon, Feb. 8:
“This incident is not being investigated as a ‘suspicious’ (death),” said Sgt. Eric White, public information officer for the Sheriff’s Office, in an email. “This appears to be associated with a medical event only. The Major Crimes Unit responds to all deaths of children under the age of 18. Our thoughts are with the child’s family during this difficult time.”
White said the Sheriff’s Office would have no further comment about the incident.
The King County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause and manner of death.
Kentwood Principal Samantha Ketover announced the death of Oscar Lindsay in a Feb. 7 email to the Kentwood community.
“I am writing today with heartbreaking news,” Ketover said. “One of our students, Oscar Lindsay, died this morning.
“We are working in partnership with Oscar’s family and will communicate information as it becomes available taking our lead from the family. Kentwood staff and Kent School District Safety Services will also continue to partner with law enforcement as the events of this morning (Feb. 7) are being investigated.”
Social media reports indicated that emergency vehicles headed to a school bus near Mattson Middle School, just north down the road from Kentwood, 25800 164th Ave. SE.
“Our school community will feel this loss deeply,” Ketover said. “We will have additional counselors, teachers and other staff available to assist students who may need assistance processing this loss. Those resources will be available through our counseling office beginning tomorrow (Thursday, Feb. 8) morning.”
Ketover encouraged parents to have a conversation with their child about the death.
“Experience tells us children deal with death and loss in very different ways and you should pay attention to your child’s behavior and mood during this challenging time,” Ketover said. “Some will want to discuss this event in detail and with great emotion. Others may withdraw or even have trouble sleeping.”
Ketover said there are resources available online from hospitals, child development specialists, counseling services, and community health and faith groups.
“Kentwood is a special community composed of amazing individuals,” Ketover said. “Oscar was one of those amazing individuals. …We encourage you to connect with your loved ones and to be there for each other.”
Editor’s note: This story has been updated with a response from the King County Sheriff’s Office.
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