A 15-year-old high school football player from Cesar Chavez High School in Phoenix drowned on Monday, July 17, during a visit to Show Low Lake in Arizona.
The Navajo County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Christopher Hampton’s body was recovered from the lake on Tuesday, July 18, a day after he was reported missing.
The unfortunate event occurred during a recreational outing with Hampton’s football team and accompanying staff. They were taking a break after a day’s practice at a sports camp in the White Mountains area when the incident happened.
Phoenix Union High School District’s spokesperson, Richard Franco, reported that Hampton was last seen around 8 pm on Monday. This triggered an immediate large-scale search operation that included a dive team, boats, and air support.
The officers searched for Hampton throughout the night, scanning the area on foot, from the air, and using patrol boats on the lake.
The high school’s football coach, William Chipley, posted a heartfelt tribute to Hampton on Twitter, celebrating the young player’s dedication and positive attitude.
As the investigation into the incident continues, the Phoenix Union High School District has offered full cooperation and extended condolences to Hampton’s grieving family and friends.
This is the second tragedy to hit the Cesar Chavez High School community within two months, following the shooting death of cheerleader Desiree Rivas in May.