Sometimes, as journalists, we encounter stories that resonate long after we have penned them down.
One such story that lingers is the one I covered on February 26 involving a tragic incident in a school bus parked at Waterville Junior High School, resulting in the school’s closure for the day.
Following an autopsy, it was determined that the cause of death was a wound, and the deceased was identified as Anthony Engelhardt, 24, from Naples. In a subsequent article, I delved into Engelhardt’s background, highlighting his graduation from an adult education program with accolades from officials. It was also revealed that Engelhardt’s mother had passed away in 2020.
After the initial story’s publication, I received emails from friends urging me to acknowledge that Engelhardt was transgender and preferred to be referred to as “River.”
Acknowledging the feedback, I expressed gratitude to the correspondents for their input and clarified the challenge of not being aware of River’s gender identity beforehand. I sought their willingness to share insights about River, who tragically passed away alone in a school bus after abandoning their car approximately three miles away on Interstate 95. The community of Waterville was left grappling with unanswered questions surrounding why a young individual chose to end their life in this manner. Despite efforts to glean information from local authorities, including the Waterville and Maine State Police, the circumstances remained shrouded in mystery.
In an attempt to paint a more comprehensive picture of River’s life, I scoured online platforms in search of friends and relatives who could provide valuable insights. While some individuals responded, many preferred to remain anonymous.
River, also known as Anthony in the past, was described by acquaintances as a thoughtful individual who battled mental health issues, solitude, and sorrow. Despite these challenges, River was known for engaging in profound conversations about life’s complexities and demonstrating remarkable generosity and wit to those close to them.
The struggle to access adequate mental health care was highlighted, with a friend mentioning River’s schizophrenia diagnosis. Despite personal hardships, River exhibited a selfless nature, often prioritizing others’ well-being and offering solace and support to those grappling with depression or suicidal thoughts.
Transitioning from Anthony to River marked a significant turning point in their life, particularly at their workplace, where colleagues embraced and respected their identity. River’s passion for hiking, drawing, and poetry was evident to those who knew them well. The acquisition of the Mustang car symbolized a newfound excitement for embarking on adventures, as reflected in social media posts capturing moments of joy and exploration.
As River’s digital footprint gradually diminished in the days following their passing, expressions of grief and fond memories surfaced online, underscoring the impact River had on those around them. Friends and acquaintances mourned the loss of a kind-hearted soul who grappled with inner turmoil amidst moments of genuine connection and compassion.
Reflecting on her bond with River, a close friend recounted shared conversations and experiences that illuminated River’s upbringing and personal sanctuary by the Crooked River in Casco. The significance of the river as a place of solace hinted at the profound connection River felt to nature and tranquility. Recollections of cherished mementos, including a treasure chest filled with family memories and a card for suicide prevention, painted a poignant portrait of River’s inner world and struggles.
In reaching out to River’s Aunt, Jessica Thompson, for a family perspective, she conveyed a message emphasizing River’s enduring impact as a beacon of kindness and empathy. The family’s plea for privacy during this period of mourning underscored the profound loss felt by those who cherished River’s presence.
As we navigate the complexities of reporting on sensitive and deeply personal narratives, it is essential to honor the memory of individuals like River with compassion and respect, recognizing the multifaceted nature of their lives and the lasting imprint they leave on those they touched.