School, Church, And Nation Mourn The Death Of St. Augustine’s Student 

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A heartbreaking loss for a Bahamian family and the St. Augustine’s College community tonight, as 16-year-old Madeline Thompson died in Panama after reportedly falling from the 27th floor of a hotel while attending an international robotics competition.

The tragedy occurred Friday morning, according to Panamanian news outlet El Siglo, which reported that the teen fell to the 12th-floor pool area around 6 a.m.

St. Augustine’s College confirmed the incident in a statement, calling Thompson’s passing a “devastating loss” and noting that the school’s delegation to Panama included faculty, a chaperone, a parent, and the principal.

Loved ones flooded social media with tributes, describing Madeline as “smart,” “beautiful,” and deeply compassionate. Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis also offered condolences, calling her “a bright young woman whose kindness and service reflected the best of our Bahamian youth.”

Thompson, who recently celebrated her birthday on September 26th, was a devoted volunteer at the St. Joseph’s Parish Soup Kitchen.

During Sunday’s service, Monsignor Alfred Culmer told parishioners their hearts were heavy with grief, as prayers were offered for Madeline’s family.

Authorities in Panama have since launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.