High School Senior, 18, Drowns During Beach Trip Days Before Graduation

A Florida high school senior died after getting caught in a rip current just days before he was set to graduate.

While at the beach with a group of classmates after school on Friday, May 9, the student was pulled underwater for several minutes, according to a Facebook post from Sebastian River High School.

Captain Joe Abollo, a Public Information Officer for the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, confirms to PEOPLE that officials began receiving 911 calls around 1:41 p.m. local time. He said other beachgoers pulled the teen from the water and started CPR before emergency responders arrived. 

School officials wrote online that despite efforts to save the student, he died at a hospital. The student, who is identified only as Calvin in tribute photos posted to the school’s social media account, was also a member of the high school band.  

“This loss deeply impacts our Shark family,” school officials wrote. “Our thoughts and hearts are with the student’s family, friends, and everyone who is grieving. Thank you for keeping this family and our school community in your thoughts.”

The graduating class of 2025 is set to receive their diplomas on May 15, according to the school’s website.

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On Saturday, May 10, Sebastian River High School held a remembrance event to honor their classmate, during which students left handwritten notes on paper hearts.

“Our Shark Family was able to share stories and lean on each other during this incredibly difficult time,” school officials wrote in another post. 

In the wake of the student’s death, officials are stressing the dangers of rip currents.

“Rip currents are powerful,” Captain Abollo tells PEOPLE, warning that they are invisible while looking at the water’s surface. Speaking generally about water safety, he encourages beachgoers to swim near a lifeguard and follow posted warnings. 

Additionally he recommends that people swim parallel to the shore if they’re pulled away by a rip current — and adds, “don’t fight it and don’t panic, because that’s what can cause a tragedy.”