Jayden Liu Harvard MA Obituary, Bromfield graduate dies in accidental drowning at Bare Hill Pond: Jayden Liu, a 2022 graduate of the Bromfield School, tragically passed away in an accidental drowning at Bare Hill Pond on Wednesday night or early Thursday morning, May 30. According to a news release posted by the Harvard Police Department, a 911 call was made shortly after midnight reporting that a swimmer, approximately 250 feet from the shoreline near Barba’s Point, was no longer visible.
Emergency responders from Harvard police, fire, and EMS quickly arrived at the scene, accessing the location via the trail behind the Bromfield School leading to the isolated point. They were assisted by the District 8 mutual aid dive team, which coordinated efforts with several area fire departments and rescue units. Additionally, the Harvard Public Safety Drone Team was activated to aid in the search. Liu’s body was located and recovered at approximately 2:09 a.m., according to the news release.
In a statement, Harvard Police Chief James Babu detailed that Liu and three friends had parked near the tennis courts behind Bromfield School and walked to Barba’s Point, where they decided to swim to a nearby island. Liu disappeared before reaching the destination. Under cloudy skies and a waning moon, searchers took about an hour to locate his body. Chief Babu confirmed there were no signs of physical injury and hypothermia was not a factor. The investigation is closed pending final reports from Harvard and state police.
School Superintendent Linda Dwight informed students and their families of Liu’s death via email on Thursday morning, offering counseling services. She announced a “drop-in support space” for students from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday and Friday afternoons, inviting alumni to join as well.
On Thursday afternoon, two of Liu’s former soccer teammates, Theo Bradley and Geraghty Vellante, honored his memory by leaving a photo, flowers, and a wicker basket with paper and pencil for notes of remembrance on the Common. At Barba’s Point, tributes included flowers, a photo, and a card that read, “Love you, Jayden,” reflecting the deep sorrow and affection felt by his community.
