East Northport Teen Dies in Snow-Tubing Accident

An East Northport teenager was killed in a sledding accident in Huntington Monday night, authorities said.

Suffolk County Police say three 17-year-olds were taking turns snow-tubing down Chester Court when one of the teens, Sean Urda, got on the tube, apparently lost control and struck light pole at approximately 10 p.m.

Urda was transported to Huntington Hospital by Greenlawn Fire Department Ambulance where he was pronounced dead, police said.

Elwood School District Superintendent Peter Scordo released the following statement on Tuesday:

The Elwood Union Free School District is extremely saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Sean Urda, a senior at Elwood-John H. Glenn High School. Sean was a well-liked member of our student body and an extremely well-rounded student. Sean excelled academically, taking a number of Advanced Placement courses. His passion was soccer and was a key player on the school’s varsity soccer team. In addition, he played lacrosse and track and was a member of Natural Helpers, the school’s peer counseling program, the National Honor Society, LOTE (Languages Other Than English) Honor Society, band and the school’s marching band. Sean also held a job and volunteered for Project HOPE and as a youth soccer coach.

“If you had to pick those students who were well-liked and well-rounded, Sean would be at the top of that list,” said Interim High School Principal Dr. James Ruck. “He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”

Teachers described Sean as bright, funny, kind-hearted and dedicated. Teacher Diane Locascio added, “I watched Sean grow from a young middle school boy into a wonderful young man. I feel privileged to have been a part of his life.”

The school has enacted its crisis plan and grief counselors will be made available to students and staff as long as needed when school is back in session. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Sean.

Image: Google Maps

Image: Google Maps

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