The United Progressive Party (UPP) has joined former candidate Gladys Potter and her family in mourning the tragic death of her 21-year-old son, Kenyah S. Potter, who reportedly drowned in Buffalo, New York.

In a message of condolence, the party said its leadership, Central Executive and wider membership are standing in solidarity with Potter, her husband Mark Potter and their family as they come to terms with the devastating loss.

The UPP said Kenyah was known to many within the party who had watched him grow from a young boy into a young man, making news of his sudden death particularly difficult for those who knew him and his family.

Kenyah, an Antiguan who was living and studying in West Seneca, New York, reportedly went missing while swimming in the outer harbor at Buffalo Harbor State Park shortly before midnight on Saturday.

Emergency responders launched a search after he disappeared beneath the water. His body was later recovered by members of the Buffalo Police Marine Unit and Underwater Recovery Team.

The UPP extended its condolences to the Potter family, saying they remain in the thoughts and prayers of the party’s leadership and membership as they navigate the painful loss.