Tragedy On Lake Georgetown. Teen Dies From Cliff Jumping Incident

Get our free mobile app

Cool waters are calling us! With summer-like temperatures and humidity levels already here, Texans are looking for ways to escape from it all. In many cases, we turn to a pool, a pond, a river, or a lake to cool off in, get some relief from the heat and have some fun too. But while out having fun we must pay attention to and observe posted signs and local ordinances.

This past weekend while out having some fun and cooling off, a 16-year-old Texas boy tragically lost his life while on Lake Georgetown in central Texas, just north of Austin. The teen was diving from the cliffs on the lake and after diving in, he never resurfaced.

Local authorities received 9-1-1 calls about the accident and the Georgetown Fire Department responded and located the teen below the surface of the water around 4 p.m. Saturday (May 14th). He was transported to a local hospital where medical teams tried tirelessly to revive him. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead Monday afternoon.

The teen was a student at Stony Point High School in Round Rock (KXAN). Counselors have been on site all week to speak with students about this tragic accident. A memorial for the teen will be held this Saturday.

This accident could have been prevented if the rules of the lake had been followed. The City of Georgetown has an ordinance on the city's website that prohibits cliff diving at the lake. "It shall be unlawful for any person to dive or jump from any cliff or rock face in a City park. It shall be unlawful to knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence, cause any person to dive, jump or fall from any cliff or rock face in a City park." This lake is part of the city's parks department.

This particular lake is also governed by the U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers and their regulations prohibit cliff jumping or diving at any of its lakes, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife.

So when you are out having a great time at the pool, river, or lake this summer, please observe all posted rules and know what kind of activities are allowed and prohibited because it could save your life.

These Waterparks Provide A Splashing Good Time For East Texans

As the heat begins to bake East Texas, you'll find some relief from the heat and humidity at these nearby waterparks.

16 Exciting Places In Tyler and Longview For Your Bored Out-Of-Town Relatives To Visit

Now it's time to take on a new adventure with the family this holiday and to kick boredom to the curb with these fun East Texas activities.

10 Unique, Super Fun Party Ideas Here in East Texas Your Kids Will Love

We've dug in and done a bit of research on some of the best ideas for kids' parties or get-togethers that both kids (and probably) parents will enjoy.