JACKSONVILLE, Texas — A 15-year-old boy died Saturday after attempting to rescue a young child whose inflatable float drifted into deep water at Lake Jacksonville Campgrounds.
According to the Jacksonville Police Department, officers responded at approximately 2:31 p.m. on June 27 to a reported drowning involving a juvenile swimmer.
Preliminary investigators determined the teenager entered the water to help a 5-year-old child who was on a floating inflatable device that had drifted away from shore into deeper water.
While attempting the rescue, the 15-year-old called out for help before disappearing beneath the surface.
Nearby citizens and a passing boater immediately responded and were able to pull the teenager from the water.
The boater began lifesaving efforts, which were continued by Jacksonville police officers and Jacksonville Fire Department EMS personnel after they arrived.
Despite those efforts, the teen was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Police said there is no indication of foul play, and the incident remains under investigation.
The victim's identity has not been released out of respect for the family. Authorities said the next of kin has been notified.
The Jacksonville Police Department extended its condolences to the victim's family and recognized the courageous actions of the citizens and boater who attempted to save the teen's life.
