KY boy killed after being swept away by floodwaters while walking to bus stop
A 9-year-old Frankfort boy died Friday after being swept away by floodwaters while walking to a school bus stop.
Frankfort police received a call around 6:35 a.m. that the boy, Gabriel Andrews, was caught in floodwaters in the Hickory Hill area.
Police launched a search-and-rescue mission, but Gabriel was found dead about two hours later.
“On behalf of the Frankfort Police Department, we would like to give our sincerest condolences to the family of this juvenile,” Frankfort Assistant Police Chief Scott Tracy said at a news conference Friday morning. “Our prayers are with them. Our prayers are with all the members of the community, with the members of the school system.”
The death marks the first reported statewide after several days of severe storms and flooding.
“We are deeply saddened at this horrific tragedy that claimed the life of one of our students,” Franklin County Schools Superintendent Mark Kopp said at the news conference. “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.”
Kopp said in an interview he could not yet comment about parents who expressed concerns on social media that Franklin County Schools held in-person classes despite the flooding. Several area school districts canceled classes Friday.
Without elaboration, school district officials said in an early Friday morning post that two bus routes were canceled.
Kopp said services are being offered to students and staff who need assistance.
Gov. Andy Beshear said in a statement,” Kentucky, I have some tough news to share. This morning in Frankfort, a child died after being swept away by floodwaters. My heart breaks for this family. Please join Britainy and me in praying for them following this unimaginable loss.”
“We need everyone to understand that all water poses a risk right now. Let’s do everything possible to keep our loved ones safe,” Beshear said.
Frankfort Mayor Layne Wilkerson and Judge-Executive Michael Mueller warned people about continued rainfall in the forecast and encouraged residents to be careful around high water. Franklin County is under a flood warning until at least 9 p.m. Friday after 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 inches of rain fell with another inch or more on the way.
“I know this tragedy is going to affect our entire community,” Wilkerson said. “We all come together and grieve together.”
Gabriel was declared dead just after 9:15 a.m. at the scene.
This story was originally published April 4, 2025 at 11:15 AM.
