Hampton Beach, NH – The Pinkerton Academy community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of 17-year-old Youness Kraouch, a student who tragically drowned on Sunday, August 24, 2025, while swimming with his family.

Youness, originally from Morocco, moved to the United States with dreams of completing high school and pursuing a college education. He joined Pinkerton Academy last year and was preparing to enter his senior year this fall.

Known for his passion for soccer, sharp intellect, and eagerness to share his culture, Youness quickly became a beloved member of the school community. Teachers and classmates recall his lively debates, engaging personality, and kind heart.

“He loved soccer and enjoyed lively debates with his fellow students. Youness also loved talking about his culture with others,” Pinkerton Academy said in a statement, reflecting on his positive influence.

On the day of the incident, Youness was swimming with his family at Hampton Beach when he was pulled under by a powerful current. His father tried to rescue him but also became distressed in the water. Both were brought to shore by first responders, who performed lifesaving measures. Youness was transported to Exeter Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. His father was treated and is now in stable condition.

The tragedy has left Youness’s family, friends, and the wider Pinkerton Academy community devastated. He will be remembered for his bright spirit, resilience, and the impact he made in the short time he spent in the U.S.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.