Talented young Idaho kayaker drowns
while enjoying his favorite pastime in Austria
By JAMES CIRRONE, US NEWS REPORTER, Daily Mail, London, England
Published: April 2, 2026
A 17-year-old boy from Idaho died this week while kayaking in Austria, and the news has devastated his family and community.
Campbell Kowalczyk drowned Tuesday, March 31, near Lofer, a town near the German border.
Since Campbell was a student at Boise High School, Principal Deb Watts announced his death in an email to parents this week.
‘This is heartbreaking news and may be difficult for students who knew him,’ Watts said in the email obtained by the Idaho Statesman. ‘Our thoughts are with Campbell’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.’
As recently as February, Campbell posted a video of himself performing a flip in his kayak through rough water.
Mateo Kowalczyk, 19, made a post on Instagram on Wednesday remembering his younger brother. ‘Words can’t explain how deeply grateful I am for the 17 years we had together. I couldn’t have asked for a better brother. If you knew Campbell like I did, you saw the hilarious, loving kid, that always had your back,’ Mateo wrote alongside a slideshow of family photos.
Mateo, who went to the same high school as Campbell, shared a love of kayaking with his brother. The two were pictured together next to their kayaks in the post. Campbell Kowalczyk (left) died on Tuesday while kayaking in Lofer, Austria. His brother, Mateo Kowalczyk (right) announced his death on Instagram
Campbell was described as having a kind heart, a warm smile and an energetic approach to life.