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Thomas Donnelly, a 21-year-old student at the University of Cincinnati and member of the university’s Mountaineering Club, died after being swept away by strong currents while hiking in West Virginia. His death has brought sorrow to classmates, fellow club members and the wider university community.

The incident occurred during an outdoor trip in Tucker County, West Virginia, where Donnelly was hiking and camping with seven other Mountaineering Club members. The group had been in the area since October 9, 2026, when dangerous water conditions reportedly complicated an attempt to cross South Red Creek.

Thomas Donnelly’s Hiking Trip in West Virginia

Donnelly was part of an eight-member group from the University of Cincinnati Mountaineering Club that had been hiking and camping in the Dolly Sods area of West Virginia since October 9. The group was exploring the Red Creek Trail and Fisher Springs Trail area in Tucker County.

On Sunday, October 11, the group attempted to cross South Red Creek near its confluence with Fisher Springs Run. Recent heavy rainfall had raised the water level and created swift currents, making the crossing hazardous.

During the attempt, Donnelly lost his footing and was swept downstream. The incident triggered an urgent search for the missing student.

Search Efforts and Recovery

Authorities were notified that Donnelly was missing late on the morning of October 11. West Virginia State Police joined the search alongside members of the Harman Volunteer Fire Department.

Initial efforts to locate him were unsuccessful. As darkness approached and weather conditions worsened, rescuers suspended the search overnight before resuming operations the following morning.

On Monday, October 12, at approximately 2 p.m., search teams located Donnelly’s body in the search area. His family was notified of his death.

The incident left fellow hikers and members of the university community facing the sudden loss of a young student whose outdoor trip had ended in tragedy.

University of Cincinnati Community Mourns

Donnelly was a fourth-year undergraduate student studying computer science at the University of Cincinnati. His involvement in the Mountaineering Club connected him with fellow students who shared an interest in hiking, camping and outdoor exploration.

Following his death, university Dean of Students Shaka Sydnor expressed condolences to Donnelly’s family, friends and classmates. The university also worked to identify students affected by the loss and connect them with support resources.

For those who knew Thomas, the tragedy represents the loss of a fellow student and friend. His family, classmates and club members are left to remember him beyond the circumstances of the accident.

A Reminder About Outdoor Safety

The circumstances surrounding Donnelly’s death highlight the risks that can arise when heavy rainfall causes creeks and streams to rise rapidly. Water crossings that appear manageable under normal conditions can become dangerous when currents strengthen and footing becomes unstable.

Hikers should check weather forecasts and local conditions before entering remote areas, avoid crossing fast-moving or flooded water, and turn back when a crossing appears unsafe. Even experienced outdoor enthusiasts can face unpredictable conditions in wilderness environments.

Thomas Donnelly Personal Details

Disclaimer

This article summarizes reported details surrounding the death of University of Cincinnati student Thomas Donnelly during a hiking trip in West Virginia. Funeral arrangements and further personal details have not been confirmed here. Readers should respect the privacy of his family and fellow students as they mourn his passing.