University of Cincinnati Student Dies After Creek Incident in West Virginia
A University of Cincinnati student, Thomas Donnelly, died after losing his footing and being swept downstream by swift currents while crossing a creek during a hiking trip in Tucker County, West Virginia.
Charlotte, NC, October 18, 2026 —
University of Cincinnati student Thomas Donnelly died after losing his footing while crossing a creek during a hiking trip in Tucker County, West Virginia, according to the available account. Swift currents swept him downstream.
The information provided does not state when the incident occurred or identify the creek. It also does not include Donnelly’s age, hometown, academic program or year at the university. No details were provided about the hiking group, the circumstances of the crossing or what happened after he was swept downstream.
The account does not identify who reported the incident or say whether authorities issued a statement. It also provides no information about rescue efforts, the location where Donnelly was found or the cause of death beyond the circumstances described. Those details cannot be confirmed from the information available.
Donnelly is identified as a University of Cincinnati student, but no statement from the university, his family or other representatives was included. The account likewise does not say whether an investigation took place or whether any additional findings were released.
The known details are limited to the reported circumstances: Donnelly was hiking in Tucker County and was crossing a creek when he lost his footing and was carried downstream by swift currents. Further information about the timing, response and official findings was not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Jared Goffinet, Annie Elming , Gray News staff on www.wbtv.com, see more information here.
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