What began as a casual summer outing to the Ohio River ended in heartbreak for one family after a 13-year-old girl drowned while trying to save a younger child.
The incident has left a Pennsylvania community grieving and sparked outrage after two adults were arrested in connection with the tragic day.
A Selfless Act in the Face of Danger
Reese Hanshaw, a bright and compassionate teenager from Burgettstown, Pennsylvania, was spending June 30 enjoying time outdoors with family and friends.
The group had traveled to the Ohio River near Weirton, West Virginia, for what they thought would be a fun swim.
But just before 7 p.m., the day took a tragic turn.
While playing near the Veterans Memorial Bridge, Reese noticed her cousin’s young son struggling in the water.
Without hesitation, she jumped in to help.
The river, swollen from heavy rain earlier in the day, had become treacherous.
The current was strong and fast—conditions that even experienced swimmers might struggle in.
Rescue Efforts Came Too Late
Emergency responders from the Weirton Police Department rushed to the scene.
One officer swam into the river to pull Reese out and performed CPR on her.
Despite these efforts, she later died at the hospital.
The police confirmed the water level was unusually high due to the day’s rainfall, making swimming in that area especially risky.
Police Chief Charlie Kush described the rescue effort and emphasized the dangerous conditions that day.
He also noted how uncommon it is for people to swim in that part of the river, especially during or after bad weather.
Family Remembers a Young Hero
Reese’s aunt, Becky Watlet, shared on Facebook the heartbreaking details of the teen’s final moments, calling her a hero for sacrificing her life to save her cousin’s child.
“While enjoying a summer day with her cousins, Reese heroically gave her life,” Watlet wrote.
Her obituary painted the picture of a vibrant and creative soul.
Reese had just completed eighth grade and was looking forward to high school.
She was known for her artistic talents, love for animals, and warm personality.
She was also a proud member of the Turtle Club and spent her time drawing, crafting, and editing videos.
Community Pours Out Support
As news of Reese’s death spread, classmates and friends took to social media to express their grief.
One student recalled Reese always being kind, sharing candy, and talking to others who felt left out.
Another said the school hallways won’t feel the same without her laughter.
A GoFundMe campaign launched by another aunt, Heather Durbin, quickly raised over $10,500 to support the grieving family.
“We are so grateful for any support, kindness, and love you can share,” Watlet wrote on the fundraising page.
Legal Fallout After the Drowning
In the wake of the tragedy, authorities arrested Ashley Shelton, 29, and Joshua Lockerbie, 34—both of Weirton—on Wednesday.
The pair, who are reportedly in a relationship, were charged with six felony counts, including child neglect resulting in death and child neglect with risk of death or injury.
According to police, Shelton and Lockerbie had brought six children—ages four to 13—to the river despite knowing the dangers.
Investigators say none of the children were strong swimmers, and no one had flotation devices.
It’s still unclear what exact relationship the couple had to Reese or the other children, but their decisions that day have raised serious concerns.
A Troubling Past Comes to Light
Further investigation revealed this was not Lockerbie’s first encounter with the law.
Public records show a history of charges including speeding, driving on a suspended license, simple assault, and theft.
Both he and Shelton are being held on $150,000 bail each at the Northern Regional Jail in Moundsville.
Chief Kush stressed that adults need to understand the risks of such environments and the limitations of those they’re responsible for.
“You have to be responsible,” he said, “especially when children are involved.”
Honoring a Life Cut Too Short
Reese Hanshaw’s funeral was held Tuesday in her hometown, where the community gathered to remember a young girl whose courage and kindness left a lasting impression.
Her family continues to honor her bravery and hopes her story will inspire others to act with love, compassion, and care—even in the face of danger.