Levi Shum of Potomac, Maryland Remembered After Passing While Traveling in Mexico
The Winston Churchill High School community in Montgomery County is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Levi Shum, a senior who passed away while traveling in Mexico with his family during winter break.
Levi’s passing has deeply affected classmates, teachers, and administrators, who remember him as a bright, kind, and passionate young man whose presence left a lasting impression. News of the tragedy was shared with families in a letter from Churchill High School principal John Taylor, who expressed the profound sadness felt across the entire school community.
According to information shared with families, Levi was involved in a tragic accident while fishing during the family trip. School officials referred to the incident as a fishing accident and emphasized compassion, respect, and sensitivity for the family during this difficult time, asking the community to avoid speculation.
Levi was known as an avid and experienced fisherman, a passion he pursued with dedication and care. Fishing was more than a hobby for him—it reflected his patience, focus, and appreciation for the outdoors. Those same qualities were evident in his academic life and personal relationships.
Friends and classmates remember Levi as thoughtful, supportive, and calm, someone who brought genuine kindness into every space he entered. He was known for being considerate of others and for forming meaningful connections with those around him.
In his message to families, Principal Taylor described Levi as a “wonderful young man” who would be fondly remembered by both students and staff. He acknowledged how difficult the news has been for the school and emphasized the importance of unity and support during a time of shared grief.
To help students and staff process the loss, counseling and support services have been made available on campus. School leaders encouraged anyone struggling with the news to reach out and reminded the community that they do not have to grieve alone.
“The loss of a child in our community is a loss for all of us,” Taylor wrote, reflecting the deep sense of collective sorrow felt at Winston Churchill High School. As the community comes together in remembrance, Levi Shum is being honored for the life he lived, the kindness he showed, and the positive impact he had on those around him.
