Charles E. Ramirez
The Detroit News
A Farmington Hills teen attending a month-and-a-half long camp in Alaska collapsed and died during a hike, camp officials said Tuesday.
Simon Mirkes, 16, was part of Tamarack Camps’ Alaska 2 Trip, according to a letter sent to parents Tuesday morning. It was unclear where exactly he was hiking in Alaska when he collapsed.
“CPR was provided, but tragically he passed away,” said the letter.
The letter was signed by Michael Cooper, the camp’s president; Lee Trepeck, the CEO; and Carly Weinstock, camp director. Tamarack officials couldn’t be immediately reached Tuesday.
Based in Bloomfield Hills, Tamarack Camps provides camping experiences for Jewish children and families.
“The other campers and staff members are safe,” the letter said. “They are being hosted by the Chabad in Anchorage, where they have emotional support, food and a place to sleep.”
It said additional Tamarack Camps staff members from Detroit are en route to Alaska to provide additional emotional support to the campers.
