Former Cheerleader Leeha Reddy, 18, Passes Away, Leaving Her Parents Sandhy And Ricky Behind!

Leeha Reddy coached cheer teams at the University of Connecticut.

May 8, 2026

This article was last updated by Manoj Gadtaula on May 8, 2026

An 18-year-old former cheerleader and University of Connecticut student, Leeha Reddy, was discovered floating near the boat ramp at Haddam Meadows State Park on May 1, 2026.

On the evening of May 1, 2026, Connecticut State Police Troop F responded to a report of a body in the water at Haddam Meadows State Park around 6:11 p.m.

Rescue personnel discovered the body, and Leeha was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene.

Initial reports indicate that her death may have been due to an apparent suicide since loved ones report that she had been quietly dealing with depression and anxiety.

Meanwhile, authorities continue their investigation, awaiting autopsy results and further information. Thus far, no additional details have been made public as officials prioritize respecting the family’s privacy during this difficult period.

Leeha Reddy is survived by her parents, Sandhy and Ricky Reddy, and her siblings, Daksha and Leevard Reddy.

A native of India, Leeha Reddy, was a proud graduate of Haddam-Killingworth High School, where she was a cheerleader.

She was a student at the University of Connecticut. Her passion for cheerleading continued into college, where she coached cheer teams while pursuing her studies.

Leeha Reddy was also a member of the Cougar Bowl cheerleading squad.

Makayla Gordon, one of her friends, penned a lengthy eulogy in her memory, urging everyone to check on their loved ones. She expressed her deep sorrow, writing:

I want to start off by saying that my heart and condolences go out to the Reddy family during this extremely hard time. Leeha, you are and were such a beautiful girl with a kind, loving, and happy soul.
I love you pretty girl, you will forever live in my heart. Please please please check on your friends and family and tell them that you love them. Rest in peace Leewa🤍🤍

Similarly, her friend Samantha honored Leeha Reddy by sharing several pictures of her on Instagram stories.

In one of them, she reflected on the importance of mental health, expressing how she wished Leeha had been able to see herself through the eyes of others rather than her own perspective. She wrote:

i wish you could have seen yourself from my point of view; from everyone’s

Leeha Reddy’s friend Samantha shared her pictures in her memory. (Image Source: )

Haddam-Killingworth Youth Football and Cheerleading Association (HKYFA) paid their tribute to Reddy, writing:

From the moment she first stepped onto the field, Leeha embodied the true spirit of cheer—passion, positivity, strength, and dedication. As a cheerleader, she was a light for her teammates, a hard worker, and extremely dedicated . As a coach, she gave even more—pouring her soul into mentoring young athletes, teaching not just stunts and routines, but confidence, teamwork, and resilience.

A visitation to celebrate Leeha’s life will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Brooklawn Funeral Home, located at 511 Brook Street, Rocky Hill, Connecticut.

During this difficult time, we offer our heartfelt condolences to Leeha Reddy’s parents, siblings, friends, and extended family.

Rest Easy, Leeha Reddy!

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Aditi is an avid music lover whose interest's goes beyond the realm of music, with passion in digital marketing. A Gen Z who loves her personal space and is keen to exploring new things. An optimist who seeks silver lining in every circumstances life throws at her.

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