Windermere teen dies in jet-ski crash

A 15-year-old Windermere teen died from injuries sustained in a Feb. 11 jet-ski accident on Lake Whitney.

According to Orange County Sheriff’s Office reports, Nicolas Lott and another teen were riding on jet skis at about 3:09 p.m. on the lake behind the home at 1420 Lake Whitney Drive, when Lott crashed into a nearby dock.

However, Sheriff’s Office reports state the other teen recounted two versions of the incident. Officer Stephen Leger’s report stated the teen said the two boys were on separate jet skis, and he saw Lott riding too close to a dock and crash. Deputy Sheriff Daniel Carpinello stated the teen told him they were on the same jet ski when it suddenly turned off and lost steering power. The teen jumped off the vehicle, but Lott was still on it when it crashed into a nearby dock. 

Lott sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash and was transported by Orange County Fire Rescue via helicopter to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, where he died a few hours later.

Lott was a student at Windermere High, and WHS Principal Douglas Guthrie reached out to parents via social media to share the news.

“I want to let you know how deeply saddened we are to learn about the death of one of our students as a result of an accident over the weekend,” Guthrie wrote. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family as they go through this difficult time. Students can have varied reactions to the death of a peer. Any reaction is normal in the grief process and I encourage you to openly discuss with your child their feelings and reaction.”

Additionally, Guthrie said, there are grief counselors available on campus for students and staff if they need support or would like to talk to someone. Parents who have concerns may contact Guthrie.

The investigation is ongoing.