Youness Kraouch, 17, a student at Pinkerton Academy in Derry, New Hampshire, tragically passed away on Sunday, August 24, 2025, after drowning while swimming with his family at Hampton Beach.
Born in Morocco, Youness came to the United States with hopes of finishing high school and pursuing a college education. He joined the Pinkerton Academy community last year and was preparing to enter his senior year this fall.
Youness was known for his deep love of soccer, his intellectual curiosity, and his eagerness to share his culture with those around him. His teachers and classmates remember him for his engaging personality, thoughtful debates, 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 shared in a statement.
On Sunday, Youness was swimming with his family when he was caught in a strong ocean current. His father attempted to save him but also became distressed. First responders pulled both from the water and immediately administered lifesaving efforts. Youness was transported to Exeter Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. His father was treated and is in stable condition.
Youness’s passing is a profound loss to his family, friends, and the entire Pinkerton Academy community. He will be remembered for his bright spirit, his courage in pursuing a new life in a new country, and the meaningful impact he made in such a short time.
Funeral arrangements will be shared by the family in the coming days. The community mourns alongside his loved ones and honors the life of a remarkable young man gone far too soon.
