Elias Orion Knapp was a 17-year-old senior at Putnam Valley High School who died after an accidental shooting at his home on Ridge Avenue. On the evening of February 1, 2019, Knapp was with his girlfriend and two friends when he accidentally shot himself in the head. A friend at the scene called 911; deputies found him breathing and he was taken to Westchester Medical Center, where he later died on February 3, 2019.

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Department investigated and ruled the incident a tragic accident. No arrests were made and there were no suspects. Knapp was remembered as a loving son, grandson, brother and friend who loved the outdoors, animals, hiking, camping and riding his dirt bike; his family chose to donate his organs.

If anyone was at the home that night or has information that could clarify the events leading to the shooting, please share what is known.