The Pleasantville community is mourning the devastating loss of 17-year-old Donald McCormick, a beloved junior at Pleasantville High School, who tragically lost his life in a car accident. The incident, which also left another student, Bella, critically injured, has shaken the entire town and prompted an outpouring of grief, support, and remembrance from classmates, teachers, coaches, and community members alike.
Donald McCormick was widely known and deeply loved across Pleasantville, not just for his accomplishments as a student, but for his infectious energy, genuine kindness, and vibrant personality. A committed participant in school activities, he was especially admired for his role in the Pleasantville High School co-ed dance routine, where his charisma and spirit left lasting impressions.
A Heartfelt Message from the School District
In an emotional message released Sunday, Pleasantville Community School District Superintendent Tony Aylsworth confirmed the heartbreaking news.
“It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we share the passing of one of our students, Donald McCormick. Donald was a valued member of our school community, and his loss is and will be felt deeply by all of us,” Aylsworth wrote. “We extend our sincerest condolences to the McCormick family, Donald’s friends, and everyone affected by this tragedy.”
To support students and staff coping with the loss, grief counselors and additional mental health professionals will be available at the Pleasantville High School Events Center starting Monday. The district has urged anyone who may be struggling to seek support and lean on the resources being provided.
A Community Comes Together in Remembrance
In collaboration with the McCormick family, the Pleasantville Youth Initiative has organized a community vigil in Donald’s honor. The event will be held Tuesday, August 5, at the PHS Events Center and adjacent flagpole area:
- 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.: Open time of reflection with counselors, pastors, and therapy dogs available for comfort and conversation.
- 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.: A candlelight vigil at the PHS flagpole, including story sharing and a closing song. Battery-powered candles will be provided.
Organizers hope the event will offer a space for healing, connection, and celebration of Donald’s life.
Tributes from the Pleasantville Dance Team and Beyond
The Pleasantville Dance Team, with whom Donald had performed for the past two years, shared a touching tribute to their teammate on social media:
“For the past two years, Donald danced with our team in the co-ed routine at our spring show. His energy, smile, and presence were unforgettable,” the statement read. “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of such a vibrant young life. From our dance team to his family, we are lifting you in prayer during this unimaginable time. May you feel the love, support, and strength of an entire community surrounding you.”
The team also expressed continued support and prayers for Bella, who remains hospitalized as she recovers from injuries sustained in the crash.
An Irreplaceable Loss
Donald’s impact on Pleasantville was far-reaching. He was more than just a student—he was a friend, a teammate, a source of joy and light in the hallways, classrooms, and community spaces he graced. His untimely passing has left a void that words alone cannot fill.
As the community rallies around the McCormick family and all those grieving this unimaginable loss, the resounding message is one of love, unity, and remembrance.
“Our hearts are heavy,” Superintendent Aylsworth wrote, “Please join us in keeping Donald and his family in your thoughts during this time of profound loss.”
Funeral arrangements and additional tributes will be shared as they become available. In the meantime, the Pleasantville community continues to honor the life of a young man gone far too soon—one who will never be forgotten.