A tragic incident occurred at Trails Carolina, a “therapeutic wilderness program” located in Lake Toxaway, approximately 140 miles west of Charlotte. Officials reported the death of a 12-year-old boy while he was staying at the facility. The details were shared in a Facebook screengrab.
Tragic Circumstances Unfold
Reports from search warrants shed light on the distressing events surrounding the death of a 12-year-old boy at a wilderness therapy camp in western North Carolina. According to the warrants, the boy experienced a panic attack on his first night at Trails Carolina and was discovered the next morning in a concerning state.
Alarming Discoveries
The search warrants revealed that the boy was found cold, stiff, and frothing at the mouth. While the exact cause of the frothing remains unclear, authorities suggested the possibility of poisoning based on this symptom, as stated in an affidavit from a detective involved in the case.
Investigation Hurdles
Efforts to gather information from other juveniles present at Trails Carolina during the incident faced obstacles, as camp staff reportedly denied detectives from the Transylvania County Sheriff’s Office access to interview them. According to the search warrant documents, the camp staff’s refusal hindered the investigation process.
Camp’s Response
Trails Carolina issued a statement on Monday night, contesting some claims made in the search warrants. While acknowledging the tragic incident, the camp disputed allegations that it prevented children from speaking with investigators. The camp emphasized that it sought parental permission for any interactions between children and law enforcement, and asserted compliance with parental preferences as required by regulations.
Clarification Amid Controversy
In its statement, Trails Carolina clarified that children were relocated from the area not to evade investigators but to shield them from witnessing the distressing situation. The camp maintained that their actions were in line with safeguarding the emotional well-being of the children involved.
WHAT INVESTIGATORS WERE TOLD
On February 2nd, the 12-year-old boy, known only by the initials CJH, was transported from his home state of New York to Trails Carolina death in Lake Toxaway, North Carolina. The camp, designed to offer therapy and wilderness experiences for troubled youth, became the setting for a tragic turn of events.
Early Signs of Distress
Upon arrival, CJH reportedly displayed agitation, described as being “loud and irate” by a camp counselor. He refused dinner but later calmed down, consuming snacks provided by the camp. As part of the camp’s routine, CJH was required to sleep inside a sleeping bag within a small tent called a bivy bag.
Panic Attack Unfolds
Around midnight, CJH began experiencing a panic attack, according to statements provided to investigators. Despite two counselors being present, it remains unclear whether they attempted to assist CJH during the episode. Panic attacks themselves are not typically life-threatening but can lead to heart issues in some individuals.
Tragic Discovery
CJH was monitored throughout the night, with checks at 12 am, 3 am, and 6 am. However, when he was found at 7:45 am, he was unresponsive. Investigators noted that his body was stiff and cold, with his arms crossed over his chest and knees bent upward. Furthermore, they observed possible petechiae, indicative of asphyxiation, in his lips and eyes.
Investigation and Concerns
Upon the arrival of investigators, concerns arose regarding the circumstances of CJH’s Trails Carolina death. Questions regarding the adequacy of supervision during the panic attack and the presence of petechiae raised alarms about potential asphyxiation. These findings initiated a thorough investigation into the events leading up to CJH’s tragic demise.
According to the warrant, the boy was found with a CPR mask on his face and was discovered without pants or underwear. His clothing items were found adjacent to his shoulder, as detailed in the warrants.
BLOCKING DETECTIVES? OR PROTECTING KIDS?
Detectives made efforts to gather information from the other four juveniles present in the cabin where the Trails Carolina death occurred, as stated in the search warrant.
However, Trails Carolina staff reportedly denied access to both speak with and see the juveniles on-site, withholding their names, dates of birth, and any other identifying information.
Furthermore, Transylvania County Department of Social Services encountered similar resistance when attempting to check on the children’s welfare and determine their whereabouts.
Refusal and Secrecy
Staff at Trails Carolina refused to disclose the location of the juveniles, citing concerns for their mental well-being. This refusal to cooperate hindered investigative efforts into determining the circumstances surrounding the Trails Carolina death.
Suspicious Nature of the Incident
Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the Trails Carolina death, but initial findings have raised suspicions. A forensic pathologist noted that the death did not appear to be natural, prompting further investigation by the Transylvania County Sheriff’s Office. While Trails Carolina has rejected claims of any criminal conduct or suspicious activity, the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under scrutiny.
Personnel Actions
Following the incident, all four adults assigned to the cabin where the boy’s body was discovered were placed on leave, according to the sheriff’s office. This action suggests a recognition of potential oversight or accountability in the events leading up to the Trails Carolina death.
State Intervention
In response to the incident, the state Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) took action by ordering Trails Carolina to halt new admissions and implement immediate measures to ensure the safety of children in its care. This intervention underscores the seriousness of the situation and highlights concerns about the program’s practices.
Historical Concerns
Trails Carolina has faced scrutiny in the past, with previous incidents raising questions about its operations. The death of 17-year-old Alec Lansing in 2014, who fled from the program, drew attention to potential shortcomings in the facility’s protocols.
DHHS, responsible for regulating therapeutic programs, has cited Trails Carolina for multiple deficiencies in recent years, indicating ongoing issues that warrant closer examination and oversight.
