Bahamian student dies after fall from Panama hotel during robotics competition

Authorities have confirmed the death of a 16-year-old Bahamian student who died in Panama after reportedly falling from the 27th floor of a hotel while attending an international robotics competition.

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St Augustine’s College in Nassau said the tragedy occurred during a school trip to Panama City, where its delegation was participating in the FIRST Global Robotics Challenge. The school did not release the student’s name.

“It is with the deepest sorrow and heavy hearts that St Augustine’s College confirms the tragic passing of one of our students in Panama City,” the school said in a statement. “The loss is felt profoundly by our entire school family. Our thoughts, prayers, and unwavering support are with the student’s family, loved ones, classmates, teachers, and all who are grieving during this unimaginable time.”

The school noted that the delegation was accompanied by a parent, a chaperone, the principal, and faculty members, and said it is working closely with Panamanian authorities while providing support where needed.

Panamanian media reported that the incident occurred last Friday when the teenager fell from the 27th floor of the hotel to the 12th landing in the building’s social area near the pool. Local reports said she had been sharing a room with two classmates at the time.

The St Joseph’s Parish, where the student was an active volunteer, described her as a “cherished member of our parish family who served faithfully at the St Joseph’s Soup Kitchen every Saturday.”

“Her kind heart, gentle spirit, and willingness to help others reflected the love of Christ in all she did,” the parish said in a statement. “We join her parents, loved ones, and the entire St Augustine’s College community in mourning this heartbreaking loss.”