LEWES, DE — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded this week in Sussex County, as Delaware State Police confirmed that 18-year-old Yorch Niz-Chilel is presumed dead after falling into the Broadkill River on Tuesday afternoon. The young man, originally from Guatemala and living in Harrington, was reported missing after what authorities believe was a tragic accident while fishing.
According to the Lewes Fire Department, Niz-Chilel was standing on a piece of wood along the riverbank while fishing with family when he lost his balance and fell into the water. Despite immediate efforts by those present—and an extensive search that followed—he could not be located.
Emergency crews responded swiftly, deploying search teams and watercraft, but by nightfall the mission had turned from rescue to recovery. The Delaware State Police and local agencies have since stated that he is presumed deceased.
A Quiet Day Turns to Devastation
Niz-Chilel was reportedly enjoying a peaceful afternoon with his uncle and cousin, sharing in a favorite family pastime. For a close-knit family with roots in Guatemala, fishing was more than recreation—it was a cherished ritual of connection, bonding, and peace.
But in a sudden, tragic moment, that peace turned into grief.
“He was just standing there, and then he was gone,” a family member shared, still in shock. “It all happened so fast. One moment we were laughing, and the next we were screaming for help.”
Family Speaks Out
Niz-Chilel’s aunt, Cecilia Morales, spoke emotionally to CoastTV News in Spanish, sharing the heartbreak of a family now facing the unimaginable. Through tears, she described her nephew as a kind, respectful young man who came to the United States full of dreams for a better future.
“He came here for opportunity, to help his family, and to grow,” Morales said. “He was humble, he was hardworking, and he was so loved.”
Niz-Chilel had been living in Harrington, working alongside family and striving to build a life filled with purpose. He was just 18 years old—with his entire life ahead of him.
Community in Mourning
The news of his disappearance and presumed death has sent ripples of sorrow through both the local Harrington and Guatemalan immigrant communities. Coworkers and neighbors who knew Yorch describe him as quiet, diligent, and warm-hearted—the kind of person who would offer help before being asked.
“He was a good soul,” said one family friend. “This is a devastating loss—not just for his family, but for everyone who knew him.”
As search and recovery efforts continued this week, volunteers and community members gathered at the scene to support the family, offer prayers, and hold space in silence. Local pastors and immigrant advocates are working closely with the family to provide emotional and logistical support.
A Life Gone Too Soon
What began as a simple afternoon of fishing and family time has turned into a devastating loss of life. Though Yorch Niz-Chilel’s time was brief, the love he gave and the dreams he carried leave a powerful imprint on those who knew him.
His story is a tragic reminder of how fragile life can be—and of how many families in our communities are made of quiet heroes striving each day for something better.
Final Words and Condolences
Our hearts go out to the family of Yorch Niz-Chilel during this incredibly difficult time. May they find strength in the support of their loved ones and the compassion of the community surrounding them.
We extend our deepest condolences to all who are grieving, and we honor the life of a young man whose journey was tragically cut short.
Rest in peace, Yorch Niz-Chilel.
Your memory lives on in every heart you touched, in every dream you chased, and in every life you made brighter by simply being you.
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