Parents of Teen Who Died in Yishun SAFRA Issued Statement About Teen Who Was an Only Child

A fatal accident involving a 15-year-old student on Wednesday (3 Feb) has shocked residents all across the country.

The teenager was participating in a “high-element course” at SAFRA Yishun as part of a school camp programme.

While participating in the course, the teen, who was suspended by a safety harness, had reportedly lost his footing and lost consciousness when he was lowered to the ground.

When officers arrived on the scene, the boy was unresponsive.

SCDF responders immediately performed CPR and applied an automated external defibrillator (AED), but to no avail.

The boy was pronounced dead the next day.

Now, his heartbroken parents have released more information about their late son.

Parents of Teen Who Died in Yishun SAFRA Issued Statement About Teen Who Was an Only Child

Jethro Puah was a loving son, an exemplary student, and a caring friend, his parents said in a statement to ST. 

The 15-year-old was an only child who was among the top in his class academically.

He cared deeply about his friends, and prayed for them when they were experiencing difficulties.

“He has lived such an impactful and fruitful life. Short as it may be, more importantly, it was very purposeful and completed”, his parents said.

Many children stray away from their parents when they reach adolescence, but not Jethro.

“It’s hard to let go because we had such a close bond with Jethro,” they said.

“More than a son, he was a close friend who communicated openly and we mutually supported one another in the family unit. We know this is not a goodbye, as we will see him again in our heavenly home.”

Mature & Musically Inclined

According to a family friend, Mrs Jessy Oskar Kwok, Jethro was incredibly mature for his age.

“While other teens were staring at handphones in social gatherings, Jethro would reach out genuinely to engage others and ask how they were doing,” she said.

“He was exceptionally mature and thoughtful for this age.”

His aunt, Madam Betsy Lee, said the teen also had an interest in music, as he sang hymns, and played the guitar and violin as well.

“He had an excellent tenor voice,” Madam Lee said.

No Foul Play Suggested

At the moment, the cause of Jethro’s premature death is still unknown.

He had lost consciousness while suspended in the air during a school activity organised by Camelot, an outdoor adventure learning company.

The company is now assisting with investigations, which are still ongoing.

The police maintained that no foul play has been suggested.

Jethro’s wake will be held until next Tuesday. The cremation at Mandai Crematorium will take place just past noon that day.

MOE Suspends All High-Element Outdoor Activities

Following the tragic incident, it was reported that all outdoor activities with high elements will be suspended immediately.

The Ministry of Education (MOE) and Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) emphasised in a joint statement that the safety of students has always been a priority.

They are “greatly saddened” by the death of the student and are offering their “fullest support” to the family, as well as his classmates and teachers.

Featured Image: Family of Jethro Puah + Google Maps