Boy dies after falling ill at Milford sleepaway camp

BY ERIKA NORTON
MILFORD — An 11-year-old boy — who had just celebrated his birthday on July 4 — died on Monday, July 10, after falling ill at Camp Nah-Jee-Wah, a Jewish sleepaway summer camp in Milford.
Daniel Ae Roo Beer, of Norwood, N.J., fell ill overnight, and was transported to Bon Secours Community Hospital in Port Jervis, N.Y. early in the morning, according to Trooper Mark Keyes of the state police barracks in Dunmore. Shortly after, at 7:30 a.m. Monday, Beer was pronounced dead.
Three other boys between the ages of eight and 12 who were in the cabin with Beer were also transported to the hospital on Monday, Keyes said, after they showed signs of illness, including stomach discomfort and nausea complaints. They were evaluated and later released.
The boy’s cause of death is still undetermined. An autopsy was conducted on Tuesday morning, according to Keyes, which showed no signs of trauma or injuries. “I think they are leaning toward a viral infection, but they are not quite sure on that,” Keyes said. “They are hoping that the autopsy will give them a more definitive cause of death.
The medical examiner also performed a toxicology test and requested medical records, Keyes said, which can often take about two weeks for results to return. Keyes did say, however, that carbon monoxide poisoning has been ruled out.
Leonard M. Robinson, executive director of the NJY Camps organization, did not return a call Wednesday seeking comment. However, according to published reports, Beer experienced “gastrointestinal symptoms” and was treated in the camp infirmary before going to the hospital.
Daniel was ‘full of life’Daniel is the son of Jill and Sam Beer. In an obituary published on the Paramus, N.J. Robert Schoem’s Menorah Chapel website, Daniel is described as a “Loving brother and best friend of Ethan.”
“Daniel’s bright smile brought joy to many, the obituary continues. “Tennis, swimming, piano, basketball, soccer and of course video games were some of the favorite things Daniel enjoyed.”
Lisa Gross, the superintendent of the Norwood Public School District, also shared her condolences.
“Daniel was a bright young child who was well liked and full of life,” Gross said. “As a community we are deeply saddened by this tragedy, our thoughts and prayers go out to the Beer family.”
Funeral services were held Wednesday, July 12, at Robert Schoem’s Menorah Chapel, in Paramus, N.J., and shiva will be observed at the Beer residence throughout the week. Memorial contributions are to be made to any charity benefitting children.