The family of 14-year-old Davoris “Peter” Carter is demanding answers after the teen vanished in the ocean during a school trip to Wildwood, New Jersey, on June 1. His body was recovered eight days later, prompting questions about supervision and safety on the outing.

Carter, a student at Delta School in Philadelphia—a private school for students with special needs—was just two days away from eighth-grade graduation when the incident occurred near Schellinger Avenue. According to reports, he and several other students entered the water, leading to a rescue effort that saved at least three others. Carter was not located that day.

His mother, Shyara Hill, says her son was assigned to a specific staff member for supervision but believes adults failed him in multiple ways, including allowing students into the water on a cold day when conditions appeared unsafe. “He deserves to be brought home. He should be home,” she stated. Carter’s grandmother, Kenya Pippen, echoed concerns, noting he went into the water fully clothed.

Delta School CEO Dr. David Weathington described the event as a “devastating tragedy,” confirming the students had supervision and offering mental health support to those affected. The school expressed heartbreak over the loss.

The case has raised broader questions about safety protocols for school trips involving vulnerable students. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the drowning.

Sources: NY POST