Raymond, NH — A pall of grief has descended over the small town of Raymond, New Hampshire, following the tragic death of 15-year-old Noah Murray, who drowned in a canoeing accident on Saturday night, May 3, 2025. The young life taken too soon has left a deep void in the hearts of family, friends, and all who knew him.
Noah, a sophomore at Raymond High School, was part of a group of four teenagers enjoying a summer evening on Governors Lake when the tragic accident occurred. According to authorities, the group had been canoeing when their boat capsized. Three of the teens managed to swim safely to shore, but Noah was swept away in the water, leaving his friends and family in a frantic search for him.
The search for Noah began immediately, and multiple agencies, including New Hampshire Fish and Game, State Police Marine Patrol, and local authorities, worked tirelessly through the night to locate the missing teen. The search efforts, though extensive, were delayed, with some neighbors questioning the initial response time of local fire departments. Reports indicated that it took nearly an hour for firefighters to mobilize their boats, and in a particularly harrowing moment, a Good Samaritan had to step in to help jump-start a fire department boat.
“It was hard Saturday night,” said one neighbor, speaking to NBC10 Boston. “They had a huge bonfire; they’re having a tour on bikes in their cars to honor him.”
Despite the delays, the search continued through the early hours of Sunday morning, as friends, family, and volunteers anxiously waited for any news. Tragically, around 8 a.m., authorities recovered Noah’s body from approximately nine feet of water, about 60 feet from the shore. It was reported that Noah was not wearing a life jacket at the time.
While the investigation continues, Noah’s family and friends are struggling to cope with the devastating loss. Those who knew him remember him as a “great kid” — someone full of promise, kindness, and enthusiasm for life. “He was a good kid, they didn’t do anything — they went out, they had fun as normal teenagers,” said a friend of the family, who spoke with affection for the young man they lost.
Noah’s passing has sent waves of grief through the Raymond community. “To lose a child is the worst thing to go through,” one neighbor expressed with deep empathy. “I can only imagine what they’re going through, and my deepest sympathy to them.”
In the wake of the tragedy, local authorities are urging the public to prioritize water safety and to always wear life jackets when on the water. “Accidents like this can happen so quickly,” said one State Police official, as they continued to investigate the cause of the canoeing accident. “It’s a reminder to everyone to be vigilant and prepared when enjoying water activities.”
Though Noah’s life was cut tragically short, the impact he had on those around him will live on. His friends, family, and community members are committed to honoring his memory and ensuring that his legacy is one of love, kindness, and cherished moments.
Noah’s family has requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time. A memorial service and celebration of his life will be planned in the coming weeks. In lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted to a local water safety foundation in Noah’s name, to help ensure that future tragedies like this one can be prevented.
Noah Murray will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will forever remain a part of the Raymond community. Rest in peace, Noah. You were loved more than words can express.