Hagg Lake Drowning: Family Of Four Found Dead
The Henry Hagg Lake drowning has stunned a Washington County, Oregon, community. On Monday evening, the body of a 3-year-old boy was found floating in the water near the Sain Creek picnic area. The following day, authorities found the bodies of his mother, grandmother, and uncle.
According to reports, the boy was discovered by two fishermen at approximately 6:00 pm. Although the fishermen pulled the toddler from the water, and performed CPR, it was simply too late. The boy was pronounced dead at the scene.
Although the toddler’s family was missing, authorities assumed they had drowned as well. Officials confirmed the family’s vehicle, personal items and a “small leashed dog” were discovered at the scene.
On Tuesday afternoon, rescue workers discovered the bodies of the toddler’s missing family. As reported by KOIN News, the Hagg Lake drowning victims were identified as Jova Ixtacua-Castano, age 42, Gabriela Garcia-Ixtacua, age 25, Michael Garcia-Ixtacua, age 13, and Jeremy Scholl, age 3.
The cause of the drownings is unknown. However, authorities confirmed they do no suspect foul play as the victims did not display “any signs of obvious trauma.” Although the lake does not have a strong current, there is a “sudden drop-off,” which may have contributed to the tragedy.
Sgt. Bob Ray with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office said no witnesses have come forward. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact authorities at 503-629-0111.
As reported by Oregon Live, the is the first Hagg Lake drowning in six years. In 2008, a tragic drowning in the same section of the park prompted authorities to install a life jacket rack. The rack offers free life jackets for use in the recreation area.
Officials said Henry Hagg Lake and the Scoggins Valley park will remain closed to the public until the investigation is complete. Authorities searched the lake using boat patrols outfitted with underwater cameras and sonar. Divers with the Newberg Fire Department and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office also assisted in the search.
According to the Washington County, Oregon, website, Hagg Lake Park encompasses 13 acres along Oregon’s coastal range. The park offers numerous recreational activities, including swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and biking. The highlight of the park is Henry Hagg Lake.
There are numerous picnic areas around the perimeter of the lake. Authorities confirmed Hagg Lake drownings happened near the Sain creek picnic area, which is on the western shore.
[Image via Flash Alert News Wire]
