Tragedy Strikes Wright Patman Lake: Two Drown in Weekend Accident

Two people lost their lives over the weekend in a tragic accidental drowning at Wright Patman Lake southwest of Texarkana.

According to a press release by the Liberty Eylau Fire Department, Saturday evening, around 7:30, they were called to the North Shore swimming area of the lake after reports that a possible drowning had occurred.

Bowie County, Texas, Sheriff Jeff Neal said that 15-year-old Jayden Marshall was trying to swim from a sandbar only a few yards from shore when he started struggling to stay above water, and he started calling for help. Family friend, Victor Lawson 34 years of age, jumped into the water to help him but both went under and did not resurface.

Both bodies were recovered a little after 9 PM Saturday night.

Officials said the area is now open to the public. But this is, unfortunately, a heartbreaking reminder of how fast something can go so wrong. Local authorities urge everyone to use caution when swimming in lakes and rivers, whether it's a marked swimming area or not, and especially if no lifeguards are present. Please remember to use life jackets when possible. A tragedy ike this can happen to even the strongest of swimmers.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of Jayden and Victor during this difficult time...