13-year-old dead after falling through attic at child care facility

PUEBLO, Colo. (KKTV/Gray News) - Police in Colorado confirmed a 13-year-old died after falling through the ceiling of a gym at a child care facility on April 18.

The Pueblo Police Department said officers received a call at about 7 p.m. for a child who fell through the gym ceiling at the Rocky Mountain Service, Employment and Redevelopment, or RMSER, Empowerment Center on Lake Avenue during a youth event.

Police said they learned the 13-year-old and four others were unsupervised while exploring the second floor of the building. They then found a ladder leading to the attic.

According to police, the group entered the attic and was walking across wooden beams when the 13-year-old girl fell.

Police said she fell through the ceiling and dropped about 25 feet to the gym floor.

Fire and rescue crews attempted lifesaving measures and transported the teen to a hospital, but she died just after 8 p.m., police said.

RMSER chief executive officer Christopher Hall released a statement after the deadly accident.

“It is with profoundly broken hearts that we at RMSER mournfully acknowledge the heartbreaking news of a tragic loss within our community. On Friday evening, during a Youth Kickback event at the RMSER Pueblo Empowerment Center & Resilience Hub, a precious young soul, Joeylin, age 13, tragically passed away in an accident.

“Joeylin was a bright and beloved light in our community, and her sudden passing is a devastating blow to all who knew and loved her. While the exact circumstances of this tragedy remain under investigation, we ask the Pueblo community and beyond to join us in lifting in loving support and deep prayer Joeylin, her family, friends, and all who are grieving during this unimaginable time.”

The agency said the Pueblo facility and pantry will be closed until at least April 29 as the investigation continues.

A GoFundMe was established to help Joeylin’s family with expenses.