Jason Beckman of North Tonawanda, Beloved Amherst Central Schools Football and Bowling Coach, Dies in Tragic Niagara River Accident

Jason Beckman of North Tonawanda, Beloved Amherst Central Schools Football and Bowling Coach, Dies in Tragic Niagara River Accident

NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. — The Western New York community is mourning the tragic loss of Jason Beckman, a beloved Amherst Central Schools football and bowling coach, who died following a tragic accident in the Niagara River over the weekend. Beckman’s untimely passing has left students, colleagues, and residents of both North Tonawanda and Amherst heartbroken, as they remember a man who devoted his life to mentoring young athletes and uplifting his community.

According to local authorities, emergency crews responded to a call regarding a possible drowning in the Niagara River near the Gratwick Riverside Marina on Saturday afternoon. Witnesses reported seeing a man in distress in the water before losing sight of him. Rescue teams from the North Tonawanda Fire Department, Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, and U.S. Coast Guard were dispatched to the scene and conducted an extensive search.

Tragically, Jason Beckman, 43, was later recovered from the river. Despite life-saving efforts at the scene, he was pronounced deceased. Investigators are continuing to review the circumstances surrounding the incident, but foul play is not suspected at this time.

News of Beckman’s death spread quickly throughout the Amherst and North Tonawanda communities, where he was cherished not only as a coach but also as a mentor, friend, and father figure to countless young people.

At Amherst Central Schools, where Beckman served as both a football coach and bowling coach, grief counselors have been made available to students and staff coping with the devastating news.

“Coach Beckman was more than a coach — he was a role model,” said Amherst Athletic Director John Wolf. “He taught our students about teamwork, perseverance, and character, both on and off the field. His impact will be felt for years to come.”

Players remembered him as a steady, encouraging presence who pushed them to be their best while always keeping a sense of humor and humility. “Coach Beckman believed in us even when we didn’t believe in ourselves,” one former athlete said. “He never gave up on anyone.”

Outside of his coaching career, Jason Beckman was an active member of the North Tonawanda community, known for volunteering at youth sports events, supporting local charities, and helping organize athletic programs that brought families together. Friends describe him as generous, passionate, and endlessly positive — a man who made everyone feel welcome.

“Jason had this rare ability to connect with everyone he met,” said a longtime friend. “Whether you were a fellow coach, a parent, or one of his players, he treated you like family. His loss is immeasurable.”

The Amherst football team plans to dedicate the remainder of their season to Coach Beckman’s memory, wearing special patches in his honor and holding a moment of silence before their next game. The bowling team is also organizing a tribute tournament in remembrance of his love for the sport and his commitment to his players.

In a statement released Sunday, Amherst Central Schools Superintendent Anthony Panella expressed deep condolences to Beckman’s family:

“Our hearts are broken. Jason Beckman was an integral part of the Amherst family — a coach, mentor, and friend whose enthusiasm and dedication inspired everyone around him. We extend our deepest sympathies to his loved ones during this profoundly difficult time.”

A growing memorial has formed outside Amherst High School, where students and athletes have placed flowers, footballs, and handwritten notes expressing gratitude and sorrow. Across social media, tributes have poured in from current and former students, parents, and community members, all reflecting on Beckman’s kindness and lasting influence.

Funeral arrangements for Jason Beckman will be announced in the coming days. His family has asked for privacy as they grieve the loss of a husband, father, and community leader whose passion for life and love for others will never be forgotten.

“He made a difference,” one parent wrote online. “And that’s the legacy of a great coach — not just wins and losses, but the lives he touched.”