News Summary
An 80-year-old man, Antonio Martinez Zambrano, was found deceased in Calaveras Lake after falling overboard while fishing. The recovery operation involved sonar technology due to poor visibility. Authorities stress the importance of life jackets in boating activities following this tragedy, which highlights the dangers associated with water recreation, especially for the elderly.
San Antonio, Texas – Recovery Operation Concludes with Identification of Drowning Victim
The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the recovery of an 80-year-old man’s body from Calaveras Lake following an incident where he fell overboard while fishing. The body was located around 11 a.m. on Monday, March 4, 2024, about 25 feet from the spot where the man initially entered the water.
Authorities reported that the man was fishing with six companions around 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 3, when he lost his balance while using a casting net and fell into the lake near the CPS Energy Power Plant dam located in the 12900 block of Bernhardt Road. A family member attempted to assist him but was unable to make a successful rescue.
The recovery operation involved the use of sonar technology to search a designated area approximately the length of a football field, where water depths ranged from 4 to 12 feet. Divers were not deployed because of poor visibility in the water, raising concerns about safety and effectiveness.
Upon recovery, the victim was identified as Antonio Martinez Zambrano. He was reportedly caught in a casting net, highlighting the potential dangers associated with fishing and boating activities. A medical examiner’s investigator was sent to the scene around noon on March 4, and an autopsy is scheduled to determine the cause and manner of death.
Safety Concerns Emphasized in Wake of Tragedy
This tragic incident has prompted local authorities to stress the importance of wearing life jackets while boating. Although there were sufficient flotation devices available on the boat, it was noted that only a child present at the time of the incident was wearing one. The sheriff and fire chief reiterated that life jackets are crucial when engaging in water activities, especially for those who may be less stable or more at risk, such as elderly individuals.
Incident Background and Community Impact
The incident occurred in Southeast Bexar County, an area owned and operated by CPS Energy. Calaveras Lake is a popular spot for recreational fishing, attracting both experienced anglers and families. However, incidents like these serve as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with water activities, particularly for those who may not have the physical capabilities to react swiftly to potential hazards.
As the community comes to terms with this tragedy, the recovery of Antonio Martinez Zambrano’s body marks the conclusion of a distressing search effort that highlighted both the risks of boating activities and the pressing need for safety measures on the water. Residents are encouraged to participate in community safety initiatives and to remain vigilant while enjoying recreational activities in swimming and boating environments.
Local officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and are expected to release further information following the autopsy results, which may provide insights into the factors contributing to this unfortunate drowning.
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Additional Resources
- KSAT News
- Wikipedia: Calaveras Lake
- KENS5 News
- Google Search: Calaveras Lake drowning incident
- KSAT News
- Google Scholar: Calaveras Lake safety measures
- KSAT News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Calaveras Lake
- KENS5 News
- Google News: Calaveras Lake incidents
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
