Elias Orion Knapp, a 17-year-old male from Putnam Valley, died unexpectedly on February 3, 2019. Knapp was a senior at Putnam Valley High School. He was known as a loving son, grandson, brother, and friend who had a special connection with animals. He enjoyed being outdoors, hiking, camping, and riding his dirt bike.
On the evening of February 1, 2019, at his home on Ridge Avenue, Elias Knapp was with his girlfriend and two friends when he accidentally shot himself in the head. One of the friends present called 911 to report the accidental shooting. When sheriff's deputies arrived, they found Knapp with a gunshot wound to his head. He was still breathing and was transported to Westchester Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The Putnam County Sheriff's Department investigated the shooting and determined it to be a tragic accident. No arrests were made, and there were no suspects in his death. In the wake of the tragedy, the Putnam Valley community came together to support Knapp's family, who generously chose to donate his organs.
