An 18-year-old drowned at Eastwood Lake in Chapel Hill Thursday afternoon, according to police.

The Chapel Hill Police Department confirmed to Chapelboro that around 2:20 p.m., police, fire and other emergency responders received calls reporting a drowning near South Lakeshore Drive and Markham Drive at the lake. A statement from a police department spokesperson said an 18-year-old patient, identified as Christian Poteat Jr., was treated on scene before being taken to UNC Hospitals. Resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.

The Chatham News + Record newspaper reports the drowning victim Poteat Jr. was a recent Northwood High School graduate. Dr. Bradford Walston, principal of the high school, shared a statement about Poteat’s passing through the Chatham County Schools district.

“Christian was a vivacious student with a magnetic smile and personality. His presence in our community will be missed. That his passing comes so soon after the accomplishment of high school graduation is a tragedy beyond words.

We ask our students to be there for one another in the face of this loss and to reach out to the school if they need anything. We also encourage our parents to take time to check in on their children. The loss of a young life reminds us of the preciousness of time we have with one another. Northwood counselors and administration will be available on Monday for anyone in need of support.”

Social media posts from the Northwood High School athletic trainer Jackie Harpham also referenced the loss of Poteat Jr., who graduated on June 10.

The Chatham County Schools district also shared a statement with Chapelboro, saying their hearts are with Poteat’s family and friends.

“We have counselors available for anyone in the CCS family who needs support through this difficult time,” said the district. “This was a joyous time in his life and in the lives of those who guided him through high school to reach the milestone of graduation on June 10. It brings us so much sorrow to lose him. We mourn with all those who love Christian.”

Chapel Hill Police said according to several witness accounts on Thursday, emergency responders did not deem the drowning to be suspicious.

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