Balloon release held in remembrance of Newark teen found dead in Erie Canal

NEWARK, N.Y. (WROC) — The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office and Newark Police Department investigated a suspected drowning in the Erie Canal in the village of Newark Monday June 24th.
Police say a witness reported seeing a male enter the water from the top of a guardrail around 8pm.

The witness then attempted to save the teen but couldn’t locate him. An hour later, first responders located the teen in the water. He was pronounced dead.

Tuesday, classmates along with others who knew him gathered to remember him.

“He would always try to be there for me and talk me up to do things like if I were to do something bad he’d tell me not to do it and try to make me in a better mood no matter what,” said Lillian Mumford.

“He was a happy kid. You wouldn’t really know what’s going on with him. He always had a smile on his face,” said Naomi Jones.

Wilson Augustave’s family was there and shared their appreciation for the community coming out to show their support.

“It’s really bad, it’s too sad that he didn’t realize and recognize all these people that cared about him. He was loved as we loved him. The community loved him. You can see the love out here as far as I can see,” said Wilson Augustave Sr.

Newark Central School District Superintendent Susan Hasenauer released a statement saying:

“It is with great sadness that we have to share the passing of one of our students. Our deepest sympathy is extended to the family and loved ones of our student. We ask that you hold our school community in your thoughts and prayers. Our school will be open regular hours tomorrow. Counselors will be available for any student staff or community member that needs support.”

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