KINGSPORT, TN —The Sullivan County community is mourning the tragic loss of Keytin Reece, a 16-year-old student from Kingsport, who drowned on Wednesday, June 25, at Warriors’ Path State Park. The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) officially identified the teen on Thursday following extensive recovery efforts led by multiple emergency response teams.
The incident occurred around 1:00 p.m., prompting a swift and coordinated response from the SCSO Dive Team, along with personnel from the Sullivan County Emergency Management Agency, Emergency Medical Services, Warriors Path Volunteer Fire Department, Kingsport Lifesaving Crew, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and Warriors’ Path State Park staff. Despite their rapid mobilization and exhaustive efforts, Keytin could not be revived.
The heartbreaking news has sent ripples through the Kingsport community and the Sullivan County school system, where Keytin was known as a kind, bright, and engaged young man. He was a student at West Ridge High School, preparing to enter his junior year in August.
In a message to the media, Sullivan County Director of Schools Chuck Carter confirmed Keytin’s enrollment, expressing deep sorrow over the loss:
“This is a tragedy that touches all of us — students, teachers, and families alike. Keytin’s life was just beginning, and our hearts are broken for his family.”
Angie Stanley, a member of the Sullivan County School Board, shared her condolences in a message Thursday morning:
“Such a tragic accident. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends. Our school community is grieving alongside them.”
As the reality of this sudden loss settles in, many are remembering Keytin as a respectful, fun-loving student who had a passion for life and a future full of potential. He was involved in school activities and was known by peers and teachers for his positive energy and easygoing nature. Grief counselors are expected to be available at West Ridge High School to provide support for students and staff in the wake of the tragedy.
A Popular Park, a Devastating Accident
Warriors’ Path State Park, located in Kingsport, is a well-loved destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts in the region. With its lakeside views and summer appeal, the park sees heavy visitation during warm months. While full details of the drowning have not yet been released, local authorities are expected to review circumstances surrounding the incident to determine whether any changes in park safety protocols may be necessary.
Community in Mourning
As the community begins to process the shock of Keytin’s passing, friends and loved ones have taken to social media to share memories, photos, and tributes to the young teen whose life was taken far too soon. Plans for a memorial service are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days. In the meantime, neighbors and classmates are offering prayers, flowers, and messages of comfort in what has become a growing circle of mourning.
A classmate wrote:
“He was always smiling. No matter what was going on, Keytin could light up a room. This doesn’t feel real.”
A local pastor has offered to organize a community candlelight vigil in Keytin’s honor, inviting all who knew him to come together in remembrance and healing.
Final Thoughts
The drowning of Keytin Reece is a solemn reminder of how fragile life can be. What was meant to be a sunny afternoon at the park turned into an unimaginable tragedy for a family and a town that now grieves the loss of a child. As investigations continue and the community grieves, one thing remains clear — Keytin’s memory will not be forgotten.
The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office is not treating the incident as suspicious but continues to work with relevant agencies to ensure all protocols were followed. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the sheriff’s office as part of the ongoing review.
Our thoughts remain with Keytin’s family, friends, classmates, and all those affected by this devastating loss.
Rest in peace, Keytin. You were loved, and you will be missed.
