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ICYMI: San Jose girl's drowning raises concerns over water safety ahead of summer
A South Bay parent is mourning the loss of her child, and sounding an alarm about the dangers of a popular swimming spot.
SAN MATEO, Calif. - A San Mateo couple who drowned at a waterfall in Kings Canyon National Park over Memorial Day weekend have been identified, authorities said.
The Fresno County Sheriff's Office identified the victims on Wednesday as Parth Patel, 30, and his wife, Dharti Patel, 29.
The couple died Monday after visiting Roaring River Falls, a popular lure in Kings Canyon National Park known for its powerful flow during late spring and early summer.
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Circumstances of drownings remain under investigation
What we know:
Authorities have not released details about how the couple entered the water or the circumstances surrounding the drownings.
However, the Ventura County Star reported that the couple stopped at the waterfall before returning to the Bay Area. Citing social media accounts, the newspaper reported that Dharti Patel slipped on rocks near the 40-foot waterfall while trying to take a photograph. Her husband reportedly entered the water in an effort to rescue her, but both were swept away and drowned.
Authorities have not confirmed those details.
Park service warns of dangerous conditions
What they're saying:
The National Park Service has repeatedly warned visitors about the dangers posed by the waterfall and the surrounding terrain.
"The rocks are slippery and the currents below the surface of the water can easily drag you under," the park service said. "Drowning in rivers like this one is the most common cause of death in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks."
The Source: This story was written based on information from the Fresno County Sheriff-Coroner's Office, the Ventura County Star, and the National Park Service.