Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 26, 2012
Contact:
Statement on the June 25 drowning at Claytor Lake State Park
At approximately 4:10 p.m., Monday, June 25, one of four lifeguards on duty at Claytor Lake State Park's swimming beach noticed two swimmers who appeared to be in distress. The lifeguard activated the park's emergency response plan and entered the water to assist the distressed swimmers. The responding lifeguard was able to rescue one of the swimmers, the second disappeared underwater and was recovered approximately 10 minutes later by park lifeguards and staff performing a grid search of the area. Park staff began resuscitation efforts immediately upon bringing him ashore and continued until EMS arrived.
The victim is a 20-year old Hispanic male who was transported to Carillion New River Valley Medical Center at 4:51 p.m. Unfortunately attempts to resuscitate the victim by park staff and lifeguards, EMS and medical personnel were not successful.
Efforts are ongoing to notify family members. The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation's State Parks law enforcement officers and investigation unit are continuing to investigate the incident.
Due to the incident, the park's beach will be closed on June 26.
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