‘Alarming trend’: Tenth drowning in Stanislaus County sets new record for deaths

(FOX40.COM) — A new record number of deaths has been set after a man was found unresponsive in the Modesto Reservoir Saturday.
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“The Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office regrets to inform the public of another tragic drowning incident in our area,” the agency said in a statement . “This latest occurrence makes the tenth drowning this year, surpassing the previous annual record of eight drownings. With three and a half months remaining in the year, we are deeply concerned about this alarming trend.”

Around 11:06 a.m. deputies responded to a report about a possible drowning of a man near San Jose Island at Modesto Reservoir. He was reportedly last seen wearing swim trunks and no life jacket. By 11:30 a.m., deputies found him in the water and unresponsive.

SCSO deputies said they dove into the water and transported the victim to shore where life-saving measures were started by medical personnel. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at noon. The man was identified as a 49-year-old Asian man from Long Beach.

“We are saddened by each of these tragic losses. This unprecedented number of drownings is a stark reminder of the critical importance of water safety,” SCSO said. “We urge all residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution around all bodies of water.”

Water Safety Tips

SCSO provided some safety tips for any upcoming trip to the area’s waters.

• Wear a properly fitting life jacket regardless of swimming abilities. Free life jackets are provided by County Parks & Recreation .
• Know limitations when entering any body of water. Weak swimmers should remain in areas where their head is above water.
• Moderate your alcohol intake.
• Always swim with someone who can provide or reach out to others for help.
• If someone is struggling to swim call 911 immediately.

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