Andre Leon Debose, 38, died while trying to help rescue his son in a lake at Willard Bay State Park. (GoFundMe)
Willard, Utah
A father died while trying to save one of his sons from drowning at a lake in Utah over the weekend.
According to the Utah Division of State Parks, 38-year-old Andre Leon Debose was swimming and boating with his 17-year-old son at Willard Bay State Park last Saturday when the weather turned stormy.
Park officials said another swimmer, a 19-year-old woman, began to struggle in the water, and Debose’s son jumped in to help.
The woman was wearing a life jacket, and she was able to be brought aboard the boat safely.
However, the 17-year-old then began to struggle in the water before he could reboard. Upon seeing his son in distress, Debose jumped from the boat to help him.
The two only had one life jacket between them and were holding onto that while in the water.
Officials said Debose went under the water and did not resurface while his son was able to make it back to the boat.
Search and rescue teams immediately responded and launched a search operation to look for Debose.
His body was recovered from the water about seven hours later, authorities said.
“The Utah Division of State Parks extends our deepest condolences to Debose’s family and friends during this difficult time,” park officials shared. “We would also like to express our thanks to the agencies who assisted in the search and recovery efforts.”
Debose’s loved ones have started a GoFundMe since his death to help the family.
They said he was working as a plumber in Utah and a beloved single father to five children who range in age from 1 to 17 years old.
“This devastating loss has left Andre’s five children facing an unimaginable future without their devoted father,” his family shared. “Andre’s selfless act of love and courage will not be forgotten. He died as he lived - putting the needs of his family above his own.”