Last week, a 9-year-old kid from Kentucky was washed away by floodwaters. His mother honored her late son and thanked the community for their support.
In an interview on Tuesday, April 8, Gabriel Andrews’ mother, Racheal Andrews, said, “I’m overwhelmed with the love that the community had for my son.”
In the southern and midwestern regions of the United States, which were already severely soaked by many severe storms that also produced tornadoes, Gabriel is one of at least 20 people who have perished as a result of recent flash flooding and excessive rain.
While traveling to a school bus stop, the kid was carried away by floods and was later discovered dead near Frankfort, Kentucky, according to WKYT.
According to Racheal, her kid “had the most beautiful smile” and “loved everyone he came in contact with.” He was a fan of football and basketball.
Three days prior to his passing, Gabriel turned nine, according to a published obituary. His mother, sister, three brothers, and maternal grandparents are his surviving family members.
A former teacher named Kasey Swails is one of the people who recently paid tribute to Gabriel. In a social media post, she called him the “sweetest boy who always put a smile on my face,” the Lexington Herald-Leader reported.
“He told me good morning EVERY morning as soon as he walked in my door,” Swails added. “He has so many people who love him, especially every kiddo in our classroom.”
Following Gabriel’s passing, numerous parents questioned why Franklin County schools were still open for in-person instruction. Gabriel’s mother expressed her “devastatement” that courses hadn’t been canceled.
“There never should have been school that day,” she stated.
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The child’s passing was likewise lamented by Franklin County Schools.
In a message posted on social media last week, school district administrator Mark Kopp said, “We are deeply saddened at this horrific tragedy that claimed the life of one of our students. The entire Franklin County School System is praying for the family and friends of those directly affected by the events this morning. We are more than a school system, we are a family at Franklin County Schools, and we share this loss together.”
“At this time, we are working with support staff at our schools and offering services to our students, faculty, and staff who need assistance during this time,” Kopp added.
Gabriel’s funeral is set on Wednesday, April 9, at the chapel of the Thacker Memorial Funeral Home in Pikeville, per his obituary.
