Tragic Drowning Incident at Portage Lakes State Park
NEW FRANKLIN, Ohio — A tragic incident unfolded Tuesday afternoon at Portage Lakes State Park when a man drowned while swimming at the park’s designated swim beach. According to a statement from New Franklin Fire Chief Steve Leslie, emergency responders received a call around 2:46 p.m. following reports that a swimmer had gone under and failed to resurface.
Local police were the first on the scene, but initial rescue efforts proved unsuccessful. The South Summit Water Rescue Team, along with the Akron Fire Department Dive Team, joined the search. Their efforts led to the recovery of the victim approximately 150 feet from the shore in about 10 feet of water by 6:30 p.m.
The name of the victim has yet to be released as the Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources investigate the circumstances surrounding the drowning. Chief Leslie expressed condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family as they try to come to grips with this tragic accident.”
This incident marks the second drowning at Portage Lakes State Park in less than a week. Just last Thursday, emergency responders recovered a body from a vehicle that was submerged at the park’s boat ramps. Community officials are urging swimmers to exercise caution as tragedies like these highlight the potential dangers of swimming in open waters.
As investigations continue, the park remains a place of mourning for the affected family and a reminder of the importance of water safety.
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