19-year-old drowns in Blackridge Reservoir


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HERRIMAN — A 19-year-old drowned while swimming across Blackridge Reservoir.

Around 6 p.m. Sunday, Unified police said 19-year-old Joey Pantoja was swimming with a friend across Blackridge Reservoir. Somewhere in the middle of the reservoir, Pantoja became distressed and drowned.

His friend attempted but was unable to rescue Pantoja. Neighbors saw and heard the friend calling for help, and immediately jumped in to help. More than 10 people attempted to rescue Pantoja, but they were unable to find him.

The man was underwater for approximately 40 minutes before rescue teams were able to get him out of the water. Police say Pantoja died as a result of the drowning.

Police also said the water was very cold when Pantoja drowned.

Safety experts said generally speaking, even on a warm day the water below the surface can be freezing. That can lead to the body going into shock, with arms and legs becoming numb and breathing becoming difficult. They said it can happen very quickly, no matter how experienced the swimmer is.

More details will be posted as they become available.

Contributing: Devon Dolan and Mary Richards

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