Fundraiser To Help Family After Ellenville Teen Drowns

ELLENVILLE, NY — A GoFundMe campaign is raising money to help the family of Charief Spratley, a 14-year-old who drowned while swimming with friends.

As of Friday at 3:30 p.m., the campaign had raised $13,015 towards its $16,000 goal via 190 donations.

Spratley was just days away from turning 15 when he drowned Wednesday, according to the campaign.

The drowning happened at the Split Rock (Rock Dome) swimming hole on State Route 55 in Wawarsing, according to state police.

The youth went swimming around 7 p.m. “not knowing it was too deep for his comfort,” the campaign says. Rescue teams found him and tried several times to resuscitate him, but it was too late, according to his family.

Any donations will be used toward medical, funeral and memorial expenses.

“We ask that you kindly help with any amount donations if you can. Kind words and prayers are needed as well,” campaign organizers said.

Lisa A. Wiles, superintendent of the Ellenville Central School District, notified the school community about the tragedy in a July 17 letter. Spratley had been a student at Ellenville Junior/Senior High School, she said.

“This tragedy has profoundly affected our school community, and our thoughts are with the student’s family, friends, and all who are grieving,” Wiles wrote.

The school district has a crisis team available and a dedicated space to assist students who would like to speak to a counselor, she said.

The crisis team will be available on Monday, July 21, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Senior High School to provide support and resources. Anyone needing further assistance is urged to contact the Senior High School Student Support Office at 845-647-0138.