Just weeks before he was set to begin high school, 14-year-old Langston Britton tragically drowned while attending a Christian youth camp in Wisconsin.
Langston, a resident of Romeoville, Illinois, was with his youth group at Silver Birch Ranch in White Lake on Friday, July 25, when the incident occurred. According to camp officials, the teen was swimming in a designated area of Sawyer Lake around 1:15 p.m. when he went under and never resurfaced.
Lifeguards quickly responded and pulled him from the water. CPR and other life-saving efforts were performed until emergency responders arrived. A rescue helicopter was also dispatched, but tragically, Langston did not survive.
“Despite the swift and dedicated efforts of our staff and emergency responders, the young man tragically passed away,” Silver Birch Ranch said in a statement. “We ask for prayers for the family, the church youth group, and everyone at camp during this incredibly difficult time.”
Langston’s identity was confirmed by Pastor John Ciesniewski of Community Christian Church in Plainfield, Illinois, who also started a GoFundMe on behalf of the family. He described Langston as a boy filled with faith, compassion, and joy.
“Langston lived a life marked by grace, curiosity, faith, and compassion,” Ciesniewski wrote. “His presence brought warmth and joy to every room he entered. He had a unique way of making people feel seen, heard, and deeply valued.”
An obituary confirmed Langston was 14 years old. He was preparing to attend Romeoville High School this fall.
In a message to families, the school described Langston as a young man known for his “caring heart, compassion, strong work ethic, and kindness,” adding that “he will be deeply missed by his many friends, family members, and all who knew him.”
While no official cause of death has been released, local law enforcement and emergency crews were involved in the response. PEOPLE reached out to the Langlade County Sheriff’s Office for additional information.
Though his life was tragically short, Ciesniewski emphasized Langston’s lasting impact: “He taught us to love more deeply, to forgive more freely, and to live with courage and wonder. His smile was unforgettable. His faith unwavering.”
