WILLARD BAY STATE PARK, Utah, Aug. 11, 2024 (Gephardt Daily) — The body of a 38-year-old Layton man was recovered from Willard Bay Saturday night, nearly seven hours after he disappeared under the water’s surface while trying to save his teen son.
The man who died was Andre Leon Debose. His 17-year-old son was able to get back to the boat, and survived.
The incident reportedly happened at about 4:20 p.m. near Eagle Beach. Debose and others had been boating and swimming “when stormy weather began impacting the northwest of Willard Bay State Park,” said a news release issued by the Utah Department of Natural Resources, State Parks.
“One swimmer, a 19-year-old woman, began to struggle while in the water. Seeing her struggle, Debose’s son jumped in the water to help. The woman was wearing a life jacket and was able to be brought back aboard the boat safely.
“However, before he could reboard, Debose’s son began to struggle while in the water. Witnesses say that Debose then jumped from the boat to help his son. While in the water, the two of them were holding onto one life jacket.”
It was then that Debose went under the water and did not resurface, the statement says.
“Utah State Parks law enforcement rangers responded to the area immediately to begin a search. They were aided by the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation ROV Team, Box Elder County Search and Rescue, and Weber County Search and Rescue.
“Emergency crews recovered Debose’s body from the water at around 11:15 p.m. His son was checked out on the scene by medical responders and cleared.”
The Utah Division of State Parks shared “our deepest condolences to Debose’s family and friends during this difficult time. We would also like to express our thanks to the agencies who assisted in the search and recovery efforts.”
This incident was the second drowning at Willard Bay State Park within eight days. The first was on Saturday, Aug. 3, and claimed the life of Weber County resident Robert Mittendorf, 51.
Mittendorf had been swimming with his son near his small boat when wind and a thunderstorm pushed the older man away from the boat. His son made it back to the craft, and survived, but Mittendorf was pushed away and went under the surface before the boat could get to him. His body was recovered on Tuesday, Aug. 6.
The Utah Department of Natural Resources asked people enjoying the outdoors to take safety measures.
“We urge all outdoor recreators to prioritize safety. Always recreate with a buddy, wear a life jacket, and remain aware of weather conditions. Ensure someone knows your location and expected return time.”
For more information on water safety and Utah’s state parks, visit stateparks.utah.gov.
