MORGAN TOWNSHIP, OH — A profound wave of sorrow has swept through Morgan Township as the community mourns the devastating loss of 7-year-old Ian Pequignot, who tragically drowned while snorkeling in a residential pool on Wednesday afternoon, June 11, 2025.
According to officials, emergency crews were dispatched around 2:45 p.m. to a home on the 5100 block of Chapel Road after a distress call reported a possible drowning. When first responders arrived, they found young Ian unresponsive in the backyard swimming pool. Immediate life-saving measures were administered, and he was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite the valiant efforts of medical personnel, Ian was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The Butler County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation into the incident. Preliminary reports indicate that Ian had been snorkeling under adult supervision when the unthinkable occurred. Detectives say there are no signs of foul play, and the incident is being treated as a tragic accident.
Ian Pequignot was a second grader at Morgan Elementary School and known throughout the community for his kind heart, adventurous nature, and radiant smile. Teachers remember him as a curious and enthusiastic student who loved nature, science, and spending time outdoors. He had recently discovered a fascination with snorkeling, a hobby he eagerly embraced with the wonder only a child could bring.
“He was just such a joyful spirit,” said one of his teachers through tears. “He brought laughter into every room. This is a loss that touches every corner of our school and our hearts.”
Ian’s family, devastated and in shock, has asked for privacy as they grapple with the unimaginable pain of losing their youngest child. In a brief statement, his parents described Ian as “our sunshine on cloudy days, a boy who loved animals, adventure, and making people laugh.” They added, “Our hearts are broken. We’re clinging to the memories of his vibrant life and the love he gave so freely.”
Neighbors and local residents have begun placing flowers, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes at the family’s mailbox. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Friday evening at the Morgan Township Community Park, where friends, family, teachers, and classmates will gather to remember Ian and support one another through shared grief.
Morgan Township Fire Chief Jonathon McKee, who responded to the scene, urged families to remain vigilant around water, especially during summer months. “Tragedies like this remind us how fragile life is and how quickly an ordinary day can turn heartbreaking,” McKee said.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Morgan Local School District has activated a crisis response team. Grief counselors will be available at Morgan Elementary in the coming days to help students and staff process the loss.
“We are hurting as a community,” said Superintendent Karen Hillman. “Ian was a bright light in our school family. We will support his classmates and honor his memory in every way we can.”
As the community mourns, a GoFundMe page has been set up to assist the Pequignot family with funeral expenses and to establish a memorial scholarship in Ian’s name, aimed at supporting students with a love for science and the natural world—just like Ian.
In a town where everyone knows everyone, the loss of a child reverberates deeply. Morgan Township now finds itself united in heartbreak, leaning on each other with tear-streaked faces, holding tight to the precious memories of a little boy who left a lasting impact in just seven short years.
Rest in peace, Ian Pequignot. You will never be forgotten.