I’m very sad to report that Luke Voss-Kernan, a 2010 graduate of Newton South, died Friday in an accident while he was traveling out west with friends. He fell while climbing a structure, while on a road trip to California.

I only knew Luke as a soccer player — my son played on the Newton South boys’ soccer team,  among others with Luke — but my heart is aching for Luke’s family and for all his friends  who must be reeling from the shock and the loss.

According to an email from South Principal Joel Stembridge, arrangements have not been made yet.  The email follows:

With huge sadness and a heavy heart we want to let the Newton South community know that Luke Voss-Kernan, a 2010 NSHS graduate, great friend to many – and a charismatic young man – died on Friday as a result of an accident as he climbed a structure with two friends.

Luke’s family wants me to share with you that this was not a car accident, and it was not anyone’s fault. ….He was on a dream road trip to California having the time of his life when it was tragically cut short by this accident. Luke’s family, who include two NPS students (one at Mason Rice and one at South), cannot yet make any arrangements. When more information about arrangements or next steps is known we will follow up.

We will have counselors available throughout the school day tomorrow (Tuesday) should students need support.  Please contact your guidance counselor or housemaster if you are concerned that your child may need additional support during this difficult time.