The incident occurred in the Red Creek Trail and Fisher Springs Trail area of Tucker County, West Virginia, where Thomas was hiking and camping with seven other members of the club. The group had been in the area since October 9, 2026, enjoying an outdoor trip when they encountered dangerous conditions while attempting to cross South Red Creek.
According to West Virginia State Police, recent heavy rainfall had raised the creek’s water levels and created swift currents. Thomas lost his footing while crossing and was swept downstream. Authorities were notified that he was missing on October 11, and search efforts began that day, although worsening weather and fading daylight forced rescuers to suspend the operation temporarily.
The search resumed the following morning, and Thomas’s body was located at approximately 2 p.m. on October 12. News of his death brought profound sadness to the University of Cincinnati community. Dean of Students Shaka Sydnor expressed condolences to Thomas’s family, friends, and classmates, acknowledging the significant impact the tragedy had on the university’s Bearcat community.
Thomas Donnelly’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly conditions in the outdoors can become dangerous. As his family, friends, and fellow students mourn, they are left to remember him beyond the circumstances of his passing and the experiences they shared with him. May those who loved Thomas find comfort in one another and strength in the support of the university community during this difficult time.
