Jonah Peter Nicosia, a Senior at Lorenzo Walker Technical High School, Found Dead in His Home
Jonah Peter Nicosia, a 17-year-old student at Lorenzo Walker Technical High School in Naples, Florida, was found dead in his home on Monday, December 6, 2023. The cause and manner of his death are still under investigation by the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, but foul play is not suspected at this time.
A Bright and Talented Young Man
Jonah was a senior at Lorenzo Walker Technical High School, a nationally recognized Blue Ribbon School that offers students the opportunity to earn a high school diploma, a technical program certificate, and college credits from Florida Southwestern State College. Jonah was enrolled in the Digital Media/Multimedia Design program, where he excelled in graphic design, video production, and animation. He had a passion for art and technology, and was planning to pursue a career in the creative industry after graduation.
Jonah was also a member of the school’s National Honor Society, Student Government Association, and Chess Club. He was known for his academic achievements, leadership skills, and kindness to others. He had a wide circle of friends and was well-liked by his peers and teachers. He was described by his principal, Valerie Hernandez, as “a bright and talented young man who had a promising future ahead of him.”
A Tragic and Unexpected Loss
Jonah’s death came as a shock to his family, friends, and school community, who are still trying to cope with the tragic and unexpected loss. His parents, Peter and Maria Nicosia, said in a statement that they are “devastated by the passing of our beloved son, who was our pride and joy. He was a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend, who brought so much happiness and laughter to our lives. He had a big heart and a generous spirit, and he touched many people with his kindness and creativity. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.”
Jonah is survived by his parents, his younger sister, Sophia, his grandparents, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 11, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Naples, followed by a reception at the Lorenzo Walker Technical High School cafeteria. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Jonah Peter Nicosia Memorial Scholarship Fund, which will provide financial assistance to students who wish to pursue a career in digital media and multimedia design.
A Call for Support and Respect
The Lorenzo Walker Technical High School administration and staff have been providing counseling and support services to students and employees who are grieving Jonah’s death. They have also asked the public to respect the privacy and wishes of Jonah’s family and friends during this difficult time. They have released a statement saying that “we are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our own, who was a valued and respected member of our school family. We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to Jonah’s family and friends, and we ask everyone to join us in honoring his memory and celebrating his life.”
The Collier County Sheriff’s Office has not released any further details about Jonah’s death, pending the results of the autopsy and toxicology tests. They have asked anyone who has any information or tips related to the case to contact them at (239) 252-9300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS. They have also urged the public to refrain from spreading rumors or speculation about the cause of Jonah’s death, and to respect the integrity of the investigation.
