PLAINFIELD, Ill — A trip meant to deepen faith and build leadership among young believers ended in tragedy last Friday, when 14-year-old Britton, a student from Romeoville, drowned during a five-day church camp in White Lake, Wisconsin.
Britton was attending camp with hundreds of other students from Community Christian Church in Plainfield at Silver Birch Ranch, a Christian camp focused on spiritual growth and connection. According to the church, the group of about 400 high schoolers had looked forward to a week of worship, bonding, and outdoor fun. But on Friday afternoon, their world changed.
“This has been the most difficult week for my staff, myself, and our church in our history,” said Pastor John Ciesniewski. “We don’t know why or how, but he died by drowning. There’s no explanation as to exactly what happened.”
According to reports, Britton was swimming in the camp’s lake when he began to struggle. Each camper had been assigned a swim buddy for safety, and Britton’s friend tried to help as he started to go under. Tragically, he disappeared beneath the surface and did not resurface.
The camp issued a statement saying that lifeguards were alerted immediately and responded within moments. Britton was recovered from the water and CPR was started right away, continuing for over 30 minutes until emergency services arrived. Despite all efforts, he was pronounced dead.
In the wake of the tragedy, Community Christian Church brought the rest of the high school campers home early and canceled an upcoming trip for younger students.
Britton, who was preparing to start high school next month, is being remembered as a young leader with a strong faith. He frequently shared scripture and reflections on social media, showing a deep passion for his Christian beliefs and a desire to inspire others.
“He was going to share his testimony with the world,” said Pastor Ciesniewski, holding back emotion. “His heart was filled with love for God, and he was already leading at such a young age.”
Funeral arrangements are currently being planned, and the community is rallying around Britton’s family in prayer and support.
As his church, friends, and family continue to grieve, Britton’s legacy of faith and purpose lives on — a powerful light extinguished far too soon, but one that will never be forgotten.
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