Maine Teen Drowns While Swimming in Hancock County Pond

A teenager from Deer Isle drowned over the weekend while swimming with a friend in a Sedgwick Pond.

Maine Teen Was Swimming With a Friend When He Drowned in Walker's Pond

Shawn Clapper, 18, of Deer Isle, was swimming in Walker's Pond on Saturday when he and another swimmer encountered an issue.

Maine Deputy and Firefighter Tried to Reach the Teen Before He Went Under the Water

Members of the Hancock County Sheriff's Department and the Sedgwick Fire Department responded to a report of two swimmers in distress. When they arrived at the pond, they found that one of the swimmers had made it to shore safely.

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The other swimmer, Clapper, was seen floating on the water, approximately 150 feet from shore. A deputy and a firefighter swam out to the youth, but he slipped beneath the surface before they could reach him.

Maine Water Conditions and Swimmer Inexperience Contributed to Sedgwick Death

Difficult water conditions prevented the rescue workers from finding him immediately, despite an exhaustive search. He was eventually recovered from the water and declared deceased at the scene.

Officials say no foul play was involved, but water conditions and Clapper's lack of swimming experience may have contributed to the tragic outcome.

A notice was sent to members of the Deer Isle-Stonington High School community, as Shawn had just graduated.

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family, friends, and all members of the community affected by this tragedy who are grieving this immense loss.

Anyone interested in grief counseling or support is encouraged to contact the high school office for information about availability.

Our sincerest condolences to Shawn Clapper's family and friends.