News Summary
The tragic death of 21-year-old Zion Cook has left the Roosevelt High School community in deep mourning. Discovered in the San Antonio River, Zion, an architecture student at Texas Tech University, was reported missing just days before his body was found. His family and friends are devastated by the loss, recalling his many accomplishments and the legacy he leaves behind. The Blackbird Golf Foundation plans to honor him with a scholarship to support future students, while the community rallies to remember and honor his spirit during this tragic time.
San Antonio – The community of Roosevelt High School is in mourning following the tragic death of 21-year-old Zion Cook, whose body was discovered in the San Antonio River near Villita Street on Monday. Zion was reported missing by his family on Saturday, leading to an extensive search for answers as concerns grew about his wellbeing.
The Bexar County Medical Examiner is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding Cook’s death and has yet to determine the cause and manner of death. Preliminary evaluations by local police did not reveal any obvious signs of trauma on Zion’s body, heightening the mystery regarding the events leading to his untimely passing.
Zion Cook was a promising architecture student, having recently transferred from San Antonio College to Texas Tech University in pursuit of his academic dreams. He earned a reputation as a dedicated student and was well-liked and respected among his peers at Roosevelt High School, from which he graduated.
Family members remember Zion as an “outstanding young man” with a bright future. His great-uncle, George Cook, noted his many accomplishments, including multiple scholarships that recognized his talent and potential. Notably, Zion received a significant $10,000 scholarship from the Blackbird Golf Foundation. During his time with the foundation, he established a mentorship with founder Demonte Alexander, which greatly impacted his education and personal growth.
In honor of Zion’s legacy, the Blackbird Golf Foundation plans to create a scholarship named after him to help future students achieve their educational goals. This initiative aims to continue Zion’s commitment to education and support for others who, like him, aspire to make a mark in their fields.
The loss of Zion has reverberated deeply within the Roosevelt High School community. Coach Carl D. Lee expressed the profound sadness felt by students and staff alike, mourning the loss of four students within the last nine months, separate from Zion’s death. The community is struggling with the weight of each loss and the collective impact on their shared environment.
Outside of his academic endeavors, Zion was employed at Panda Express in Selma. In light of his passing, his coworkers initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist his family during this difficult time. The campaign has raised over $7,000, showcasing the immediate community’s willingness to support those in need during tragic moments.
The San Antonio Police Department is actively continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Zion’s death, as the community seeks answers and clarity regarding the tragic event that has impacted so many. Friends and family are dedicated to keeping Zion’s memory alive through storytelling and initiatives tied to scholarship efforts, contributing to a legacy that reflects his vibrant spirit.
The Panda Restaurant Group expressed their sadness over Zion’s passing, extending heartfelt condolences to his family and coworkers who are grieving the loss of a valued team member. As the investigation continues and the community seeks to heal, the memory of Zion Cook remains a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
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Additional Resources
- KENS 5
- Wikipedia: San Antonio
- KSAT
- Google Search: Zion Cook
- San Antonio Current
- Google Scholar: San Antonio events
- Express-News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Zion Cook
- Hoodline
- Google News: San Antonio River
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.
