In Appanoose County, Iowa, a tragic event happened earlier this summer when a high school student and Prom King was found dead just an hour after being reported missing. On June 26, 2024, 17-year-old Ayden Beeson was swimming when he went under the water and didn’t come back up, according to reports.
The Appanoose County Sheriff quickly announced that someone had called 911 to report a possible drowning at Rathbun Lake. The Sheriff’s Office and the Water Rescue team worked together to find Ayden, but sadly, the story ended in tragedy.
Ayden’s body was found in 15 to 20 feet of water by the Water Rescue team. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The tragedy was even harder to bear because Ayden was a well-liked student in the Centerville School District. He had been chosen as Prom King before his spring graduation and was known for his achievements in tennis and football.
Superintendent Mark Taylor said, “Losing such a remarkable young man at such a young age is devastating for our community, his family, and everyone he was about to impact. He was a popular student who always showed kindness and empathy to everyone.”
Ayden’s coach praised his hard work and noted that he was the only Big Red Tennis player.
The Centerville Community Schools’ Facebook page shared a heartfelt message the day after his passing, expressing deep sadness over the loss of a student known for his genuine kindness.
The message concluded with, “Congratulations to the 2024 CHS Prom Royalty: Olivia, Connor Stephens, Kayla Fagen, and Xander Jones. May you rest in peace, Ayden Beeson.”
