A 16-year-old Gloucester resident died in a boating accident on the York River Sunday.
According to a press release from Zachary M. Widgeon, director of communications for the Virginia Marine Police, officers responded to the Gloucester Point boat ramp at 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 30, in response to a collision between a jet ski being operated by the 16-year-old and a pontoon boat being operated by his stepfather. The collision took place near Machicomoco State Park, Hayes.
The juvenile, identified independently as Brycen Wermter, was recovered from the water by the pontoon boat occupants and brought to Gloucester Point boat ramp for care, said the release. Abingdon Volunteer Fire and Rescue provided rescue services, but the juvenile was declared deceased at the scene.
Alcohol is not believed to be a factor at this time, and no charges are pending, said the release.
Virginia Marine Police were assisted by Gloucester County Sheriff’s Office, Department of Wildlife Resources, and U.S. Coast Guard, said the release. The agency extended sympathy to the family of the victim and said that more information will be released once the investigation has been completed.
Wermter’s mother, Sharlynne Wermter, said she was at a loss and could hardly find words to comment on what happened. But she wanted people to know that the amount of love Brycen shared with his family, both immediate and extended, “was immeasurable.”
“He was a role model for all six of his siblings,” she said. “They all adored him.”
A GoFundMe account has been established to raise funds to help the family with any expenses incurred, including funeral costs. The fundraising page states that Brycen was a junior at Gloucester High School who played tight end for the Gloucester Dukes football team.
“He was kind, funny, and sweet,” said the fundraiser page. “He was willing to do anything for anyone and was always putting a smile on everyone’s face … He will be forever missed by his entire family, but especially by his best friend and brother, Kyler.”
To contribute to the fundraiser, visit gofundme.com and search under “Near you” for “Brycen,” organized by Jessica Fowler.