On Sunday, September 17, a junior at Columbia University in New York City died in a kayaking accident on the Potomac River near Washington, D.C.
Ella Mills, originally from Dublin, was studying at Columbia in association with a program at Trinity College Dublin. She was kayaking with the Columbia University Whitewater Kayaking Club when the incident occurred.
Together with three other club members, Mills capsized in the Little Falls rapid section of the river. A local kayaker, Tim Atwell, who witnessed the incident, said, “I saw four of them flip in quick succession. Due to the speed of the current, they didn’t anticipate flipping.” Atwell had been observing the group, thinking they might not be familiar with the challenges of that river section.
The Little Falls Rapid, classified as a Class II/III section, is known for a difficulty level suitable for a range of kayakers, from novices to experts. However, recent lack of rain reduced the river’s water level, causing rocks and other obstacles that were usually submerged to become visible. These presented unfamiliar challenges even for those acquainted with these waters.
When Mills’ kayak flipped, her spray skirt, designed to keep the kayaker sealed inside, became entangled between rocks. Atwell acted swiftly to help. Despite collective efforts, they couldn’t free Mills in time.
Montgomery County Potomac Rapids Rescue responded promptly but was unable to save Mills.
Minouche Shafik, the president of Columbia University, expressed condolences, emphasizing that Mills had recently moved from Dublin to commence her studies at Columbia.
In light of this tragedy, the local whitewater community has underscored the importance of ongoing training and adaptability to the changing river conditions. Ashley McEwan, a kayak instructor, noted, “This situation accentuates the need to practice rescue skills regularly and maintain alertness. Particularly in low water conditions, one must exercise heightened caution.”
