ANDOVER — Eighth-grade student Cody Nguyen died on Friday, June 19, 2026, after failing to resurface while swimming with friends. Andover Public Schools Interim Superintendent Keith Taverna and Doherty Middle School Principal Rebecca Perry confirmed the death in a letter sent to the community on Saturday, June 20, 2026.

Nguyen was swimming with a group of friends on May 19, 2026, at Field Pond in Harold Parker State Forest when he went underwater and did not resurface. Emergency crews located Nguyen approximately 25 feet from shore, submerged in 10 to 12 feet of water. According to Andover police, Nguyen was unresponsive when pulled from the water.

Nguyen was transported to Lawrence General Hospital and was later flown by helicopter to a hospital in Boston. He remained in critical condition for weeks following the incident. "We extend our deepest condolences and support to Cody's family," Taverna and Perry said in their letter.

Grief counselors will be available for students and staff at Doherty Middle School on Monday and Tuesday. "We understand that this loss may bring a range of emotions, concerns, and questions for our entire school community, especially for our students, and we are here to support one another," Taverna wrote. He also stated, "We are heartbroken by this loss and remain committed to supporting our students, staff, and families in every way we can." Taverna added, "Please keep the family and the entire Doherty Middle School community in your thoughts."