An attempt to beat the heat this afternoon turned deadly for a 21-year-old man who attempted to save a young teen in San Jacinto county, instead both drowned.
Despite life jackets and water gear being on board several of the canoes at the Campamento Bethal religious retreat grounds, detectives say, the two were not wearing any protective gear.
Just after 8:30 a.m. Sunday, San Jacinto County Detective E. Roberts says the individuals were canoeing when their boat capsized.
"The juvenile fell in the water. He couldn't swim, so the adult male tried to save the juvenile victim and both went under and drowned," says Roberts.
Roberts also confirmed that officials spent several hours looking for the 21-year-old's body.
Axel Rodriguez, a witness to the tragedy who had just arrived for a fun filled day, described how there were several cries for help.
"Many even tried to save the two," Rodriguez said and with tears in his eyes.
Rodriguez said he didn't know either of the victims but says it still makes for a devastating day.
The identities of the victims have not been released.
