News Summary
The San Antonio community mourns the loss of 21-year-old Zion Cook, a dedicated student-athlete at Roosevelt High School, who was found deceased in the San Antonio River. His family reported him missing just days prior, and while there are no signs of trauma, an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances of his death. Cook was pursuing a degree in architecture and was celebrated for his contributions to sports and academics. This incident has raised concerns about safety along the river, prompting community discussions on preventive measures.
San Antonio – The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified 21-year-old Zion Cook as the individual found deceased in the San Antonio River on June 30, 2025. Cook’s body was discovered by a passerby near the 100 block of Villita Street, close to Main Plaza, shortly after noon.
As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death, it remains unclear how long Cook had been in the river, but police reported no apparent signs of trauma on his body. The San Antonio Police Department’s Homicide Unit is currently conducting an ongoing investigation into the situation, while the medical examiner’s office is working to establish the cause and manner of death.
Cook’s family had filed a missing person’s report on June 28, just days before his body was found. Following the heartbreaking news, a family friend indicated that the Cook family is understandably in shock over the loss of their son.
Zion Cook was pursuing a degree in architecture at the time of his untimely death. He was also a celebrated student-athlete at Roosevelt High School, where he made significant contributions to various sports, including basketball and track. His former coaches and peers described him as well-liked, respectful, and known for his positive demeanor, particularly highlighted by his infectious smile.
The Roosevelt High community, which has faced several tragic losses over the past year, holds Cook’s memory close as the most recent victim of these tragic events. Carl D. Lee, the head boys basketball coach at Roosevelt High School, noted the impact Cook had on his peers and the community at large.
Residents living near the discovery site have also expressed concerns regarding safety in the river area, pointing out that several accidents have occurred in the vicinity in the past. This recognition of potential hazards has prompted discussions among community members about the importance of safety measures to prevent future tragedies.
In addition to being an accomplished student and athlete, Cook was recognized by the Blackbird Golf and Cameron Champ Foundation as a promising scholarship recipient, indicating his dedication and potential in both academics and sports.
Unfortunately, the San Antonio River has seen multiple bodies discovered over the past few years, leading authorities to rule several deaths as drownings. The ongoing investigation into Cook’s death will add to the township’s efforts to ensure safety and understand the circumstances surrounding such incidents.
The tragic loss of Zion Cook has left an indelible mark on the San Antonio community, prompting an outpouring of grief, reflection, and calls for improved measures to enhance safety around the river areas. As investigators work to piece together the events that led to his death, the community continues to mourn the loss of a bright young man with a promising future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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San Antonio Community Mourns the Loss of Zion Cook
San Antonio Community Mourns the Loss of Young Man
Community Mourns Loss of Promising Student
Investigation Underway After Body of 21-Year-Old Found in River
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Additional Resources
- KENS 5: Man Found Dead in San Antonio River Identified as Zion Cook
- KSAT: Body Found in San Antonio River Identified
- San Antonio Current: Body Found in San Antonio River Identified
- San Antonio Express-News: San Antonio River Walk Deaths
- Hoodline: Community Mourns as Body of Missing Student Zion Cook Found
- Wikipedia: San Antonio
- Google Search: Zion Cook San Antonio
- Google Scholar: Zion Cook
- Encyclopedia Britannica: San Antonio
- Google News: Zion Cook Death
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.
