Maameyaa Ntiriwaa, a radiant and spirited 14-year-old girl from Fairfax, Vermont, whose life bridged continents and dreams, was confirmed as the victim of a devastating drowning incident at Kennedy Pond in Windsor on July 2. Affectionately known to loved ones as “Pinky,” Maameyaa was spending the day with family friends as part of a summer camping outing when the unthinkable occurred.

According to local authorities, Maameyaa had entered the water to swim when she disappeared beneath the surface, triggering a massive multi-agency emergency response that rapidly unfolded across the Windsor area. Emergency responders from Windsor Police, Windsor Fire Department, and the Hanover dive unit arrived at the pond shortly after 12:15 p.m. for what initially began as a rescue mission. Tragically, by late afternoon, the effort had shifted to a recovery operation.

At approximately 5:30 p.m., after 45 minutes of searching by the Vermont State Police (VSP) dive team, Maameyaa’s body was found submerged roughly 100 feet from the shoreline. She was discovered in a section of the pond between a dock and a yellow floating raft—an area popular with young swimmers and families. The swift and coordinated effort brought heartbreaking closure to the hours-long search, but not to the grief that followed.

Maameyaa’s story is one of both hope and heartbreak. Originally from Ghana, she had immigrated to the United States with her parents and two siblings in pursuit of a brighter future. Settling in Fairfax, the Ntiriwaa family quickly became woven into the fabric of their local Vermont community. Maameyaa, described by friends and neighbors as joyful, intelligent, and full of light, was thriving in her new surroundings. She was known for her generous spirit, her ever-present smile, and a compassionate heart that left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

The impact of her death has reverberated across Vermont. “This is a tragic loss for a family that came here seeking a brighter future,” said one resident, capturing the emotional weight now borne by those who knew and supported the Ntiriwaa family. A GoFundMe campaign has since been launched to assist with funeral expenses and to offer the family the time and space they need to grieve without financial hardship.

Windsor Police Chief Bill Daniels confirmed that an active investigation is ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the drowning. While no foul play is suspected, the inquiry aims to better understand how such a devastating accident occurred in a seemingly recreational setting. Lieutenant Charles Winn of the VSP dive team noted that additional details would be forthcoming as evidence is processed and witness interviews are completed.

The accident has raised broader questions about water safety awareness during summer months in Vermont, especially among newer residents unfamiliar with local swimming spots. While Kennedy Pond is a favored location for outdoor recreation, its mix of docks, rafts, and deepwater zones demands strong swimming skills and constant supervision, particularly when young swimmers are involved.

Community grief services have been activated across Windsor and surrounding areas. School officials, counselors, and faith-based organizations are working together to provide comfort and support to anyone impacted by the tragedy. Friends of Maameyaa have already begun sharing memories and tributes—both online and in person—highlighting the incredible promise and kindness she brought into every space she entered.

Plans are reportedly underway for a memorial service or vigil, though no formal arrangements have been announced as of yet. The Fairfax and Windsor communities are expected to unite in remembrance of Maameyaa in the coming days, joining her family in honoring a life that, though short, left a powerful imprint.

As Vermont mourns a girl who represented hope, love, and perseverance, Maameyaa Ntiriwaa’s legacy will not be defined by the tragedy of her passing, but by the brightness of her spirit and the deep love she inspired in those around her. She will be remembered not only as a daughter and a sister, but as a beacon of possibility whose memory will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.