A candlelight vigil for Brandt Hatch will be held Friday evening, July 1st at 9 p.m. on the grounds of Joan Austin Elementary School. Newberg School District counselors will be at the family and friend-sponsored vigil to support students and families dealing with grief and loss.

Brandt, a Newberg High School June graduate, has been identified as the teen that drowned when attempting to swim across the Clackamas River yesterday afternoon. The 18 year-old was camping trip with friends.

The tragic news comes as a shock to the Newberg school community. NHS principal Kyle Laier said the high school community is deeply saddened by the news.

“We are all grieving the loss of Brant Hatch and feel for his family and friends,” said Laier. “I know the Newberg staff, students and families have been, and will continue to support the family during this difficult time.”

Teacher Gail Grobey describes Brandt as quiet with a wry smile and a great sense of humor.  Brandt took Advanced Placement classes and was a member of the award-winning NHS Robotics Team.

Services for Brandt will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 9, at Northside Community Church, 1800 Hoskins in Newberg.

Family friends have set up a GoFundMe site to provide support for the Hatch family