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SINGAPORE – He was a sensible and mature boy who deeply loved his family and friends.
But on Thursday (February 4), Jethro Puah, 15, a student at the Anglo-China (Independent) School, died after an accident in Safra Yishun.
Police said he lost his balance during high-element activity around 2 pm Wednesday and was “suspended by the safety harness” in midair.
He died Thursday morning at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital (KTPH).
In a statement to The Straits Times on Friday, Jethro’s family said that he was an only child who was among the best in his class academically and was also a loving friend who prayed for those around him when they were going through difficult times.
“He was a loving son, an exemplary student, a loving friend and a class principal,” the statement said.
“She has lived such an impactful and fruitful life. As brief as it was, more importantly, it was very useful and comprehensive.”
His parents said that they would always do things together as a family.
“It’s hard to let him go because we had such a close bond with Jethro,” they said.
“More than a son, he was a close friend who communicated openly and supported each other in the family unit. We know this is not goodbye, as we will see him again in our heavenly home.”
Speaking to the media outside the wake at Singapore Casket on Lavender Street, his aunt, Madame Betsy Lee, in her 70s, said Jethro was musically inclined.
“I remember him singing hymns beautifully, and he had an excellent tenor voice,” he said. “He also liked to play the violin and the guitar.”
Mrs. Jessy Oskar Kwok, a friend of the family, said that Jethro was very mature for his age.
“While other teens were looking at cell phones at social gatherings, Jethro would genuinely reach out to engage others and ask how they were doing,” he said.
“He was exceptionally mature and thoughtful for this age.”
The family requested privacy and said they are still in shock and mourning.
Jethro had lost consciousness while suspended in midair, and paramedics from the Singapore Civil Defense Force attempted to resuscitate him on the spot before taking him to KTPH.
He participated in the school activity organized by Camelot, an outdoor adventure learning company, which is now collaborating in the investigations.
Police said investigations are ongoing, but no crime has been suggested.
The Ministry of Education (MOE) and ACS (I) said in a joint statement Thursday night that they were deeply saddened by Jethro’s death.
“Together, we are working closely together to provide our maximum support to the family, as well as to the students’ classmates and teachers during this difficult time,” they said.
“The safety of our students has always been a priority for us, and we are working with the police and relevant parties to investigate the incident.”
The MOE has suspended all outdoor activities involving heights for all schools until investigations into the incident are completed.
All activities at the Safra Yishun Adventure Sports Center have also been temporarily suspended.
Education Minister Lawrence Wong posted on Facebook that his heart goes out to Jethro’s parents and friends.
He said: “To your family members and loved ones, my condolences and condolences. To your friends and classmates, be strong.
“As a school, as a community, we are with you. Know that you can contact your teachers and counselors at any time.
“My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during these difficult times.”
Jethro’s wake will run until next Tuesday, and cremation at Mandai Crematorium is scheduled for shortly after noon.
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