Teen who died rafting on Stanislaus River wasn’t strong swimmer, mom says
The body of a teenager who disappeared underwater while rafting in Caswell Memorial State Park over the weekend was identified as Gabriel Lechuga Santiago of Stockton, the San Joaquin County Medical Examiner’s Office said.
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Santiago, 17, was rafting on the Stanislaus River on Saturday and did not resurface, SFGATE previously reported. Rescuers found Santiago’s body on Sunday afternoon after an extensive search involving a boating unit, fire crews and an uncrewed aircraft system, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office said in a Facebook post.
“Our hearts are with the victim’s family, friends, and loved ones as they navigate this unimaginable loss. We extend our deepest condolences during this incredibly difficult time,” the sheriff’s office wrote.
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Santiago’s mother told KCRA that her son was rafting with friends who tried to save him after he went underwater. She told the news outlet that she wasn’t aware Santiago was going to the river and he was not an experienced swimmer. Santiago’s mother described him as a “loving person.”
The drowning is an active investigation, the sheriff’s office said.
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This breaking news story has been updated.
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