Teen dies in Sunday drowning incident on Bedford pond

BEDFORD - A 15-year-old boy drowned in a Bedford pond on Sunday.

New Hampshire State Police Marine Patrol responded to Sebbins Pond around 7 p.m. for a report of a possible drowning.

Witness interviews indicate the boy and several friends were playing on a rope swing and jumping into the water. The victim landed in the water after using the rope swing, surfaced briefly and then submerged. One of the victim's friend's called 911.

Bedford Fire and Police arrived shortly after the 911 call and immediately entered the water in an attempt to locate the boy without success. Nashua Fire Department divers were requested and located the 15-year-old male victim around 9:15 p.m.

Agencies responding include N.H. State Police Marine Patrol, Bedford Fire Department, Bedford Police Department, Nashua Fire Department and New Hampshire Fish and Game.

At this time the name of the victim is not being released pending notification of next of kin.

The incident remains under investigation.

The NH State Police Marine Patrol Unit offers these general water safety recommendations:

1. Never swim alone, always bring a friend.

2. Swim in areas with lifeguards, whenever possible.

3. Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) or life jacket whether recreating from a boat, alongshore, or in the water.

4. Know the conditions prior to heading out.

5. Know where you will be swimming and the name of the area in case you need to call for help.

6. Always tell someone where you are going and when you will return.

7. Stay alert and be aware of what is going on around you.

8. Always call 9-1-1 to report emergencies.

Anyone having any information relating to this incident is asked to contact New Hampshire State Police Marine Patrol Sgt. Steve O'Connor at 1-603-227-2114 or email at Stephen.J.O'Connor@dos.nh.gov.