Outpouring of support for Wake County teen who died in pool
RALEIGH (WTVD) -- A Wake County family is struggling to make sense of the death of their teenage daughter. Rachel Rosoff, 17, died Saturday at her community pool where neighbors say she was a lifeguard.
Authorities released a preliminary autopsy Monday which says the pool had an electric charge and that may have knocked her unconscious.
The employee who went to the pool after Rosoff for the next shift called 911 and told the emergency operator: "She might have gone in to clean up after the storm and maybe the pool got struck by lightning and it electrified it?"
Emergency workers responded around 2:30 p.m. to Heritage Point Pool Saturday. Deputies are still investigating.
Facebook posts offer a lot of love for Rosoff. Many people have shared their thoughts and expressed sympathy. A co-worker at The Food Ark, a non-profit in Raleigh dedicated to fighting food insecurity, wrote this:
I am unbelievably fortunate to have been able to work with you the past 2 years through The Food Ark. I remember the days when you would come into the garden or late night Cooking Matters classes laughing with pure joy. You would always walk into every meeting with a bright smile on your face--your happiness was quite contagious.
Thank you for all the times that you pushed me to become a better person and leader. You were such an inspiring and kind-hearted friend. I will never forget the dedication, compassion, and hard work that followed you wherever you would go.
To whatever God or spirit or energy which you align yourself with, let us pray for her and her family. We were honored to have been graced by your beautiful presence, Rachel. And The Food Ark as a whole will continue to honor you and your life in whatever we do.
A while back, Rosoff wrote a post herself worth noting:
I can't tell you what happiness is, it's different for everyone. But I can tell you where you can find happiness. Within yourself!
A spokesperson from the Aquatic Management Group released this statement:
We are shaken by the loss of such a vibrant young life. Our deepest sympathy is extended to the family in this time of unfathomable grief. We are cooperating with investigators in every possible way and are hopeful that the investigation may provide an explanation for this tragedy.
It's unclear whether the Aquatic Management Group just cleans the pool or also manages it.
A final autopsy is still pending.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Wake County Sheriff's Office at (919) 856-6911.
