VENANGO TOWNSHIP, PA — Accidental Drowning of Jeril Allen Paul Hutton

VENANGO TOWNSHIP, PA — Accidental Drowning of Jeril Allen Paul Hutton

1. Incident Summary

• On the evening of Saturday, August 2, 2025, at approximately 6:07 PM (18:07 hours), 18‑year‑old Jeril Allen Paul Hutton of Clearfield County was tragically pronounced dead by the Venango County Coroner, Christina Rugh, at the scene §.

• According to Pennsylvania State Police reports, witnesses observed Hutton enter the Allegheny River in Venango Township, Venango County, during the evening hours. He was swiftly caught in a strong river current and pulled under, disappearing from view §

2. Emergency Response

• Local fire and EMS crews responded quickly upon notification. Rescue efforts included attempts at resuscitation at the scene and during transport, but despite their efforts, Hutton could not be revived and was officially declared deceased §.

3. Victim & Context

• The victim was identified as Jeril Allen Paul Hutton, an 18-year-old resident of Clearfield County. Earlier that day, he had reportedly been missing before the tragic rescue response took place §.

• This tragic drowning has sent shockwaves through both his hometown community in Clearfield County and neighboring Venango County.

4. Cause & Coroner’s Report

• The official ruling from the coroner categorized the death as an accidental drowning. The powerful river current appears to have overwhelmed Hutton before rescue teams could intervene §.

Background & Additional Context

⛑️ Water Conditions

• While specific river conditions that evening (e.g., water level, temperature, recent weather) have not been publicly released, rivers like the Allegheny can pose significant hazards—especially in summer months with increased flow and swimmers unaware of potential currents or temperature-related effects.

⚠️ Common Drowning Risks

• Accidents in natural waterways often involve swimmers who misjudge:

  • the strength and unpredictability of currents,

  • temperature effects leading to cold-water shock,

  • fatigue or cramps, especially in strong flowing water, and

  • lack of flotation devices or supervision.

Summary Table

Closing Thoughts

This heartbreaking event is a tragic reminder of how quickly water-related accidents can occur—even in familiar settings. Although formal details about river conditions that evening remain pending, the combination of strong currents and the inherent risks of natural waterways contributed to this devastating outcome. Emergency responders worked swiftly, but unfortunately, the rescue came too late.

My condolences to Hutton’s family and community. If you’d like assistance with locating local safety resources, drowning prevention programs, or any memorial information, I’m here to help.