14-year-old Fall River boy dies in accidental drowning

A 14-year-old Fall River boy died in an accidental drowning at South Wattupa Pond in Fall River around 12:45 p.m. Tuesday, the Bristol District Attorney’s office said in a statement.

The victim was with his friend, a 13-year-old girl, when the pair decided to jump off a rocky ledge and into the pond, authorities said. Both teens reportedly were showing signs of distress immediately after entering the water.

Today, we had to again report the untimely death of another young person who drowned. This time, the victim was a 14 yr old Fall River boy. We urge parents to please talk to your children and friends about the risks associated with enjoying our beautiful beaches, lakes & ponds.

— Bristol DA (@BristolDA) July 17, 2018

Three male bystanders witnessed the incident, and attempted to rescue the pair, according to the DA’s office. The good Samaritans were able to successfully save the girl, but were unable to assist the boy in time. He went under the water and did not resurface, officials said.

Fall River police arrived shortly after the drowning occurred, but arriving officers were unsuccessful in their attempts to recover his body. Approximately 40 minutes later, the boy, who has not been publicly identified, was removed from the water by members of the Fall River Fire Department Dive Team, authorities said. He was then transported to St. Anne’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The girl and two of the bystanders involved were transferred to St. Anne’s Hospital as a precaution, according to the DA’s office.