According to the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, emergency responders were dispatched around 4:10 p.m. after multiple witnesses saw the man struggling in the water. Despite efforts from bystanders and first responders, the victim vanished beneath the surface and could not be located immediately.

Search and rescue teams arrived quickly, initiating a full-scale search with the assistance of dive crews and watercraft. After several hours of coordinated efforts, the body of the unidentified man was recovered from the water later that evening.

Ongoing Dangers in Central Valley Waterways

This latest incident has once again drawn attention to the ongoing dangers associated with the Kings River and other local bodies of water during the hot summer months. Sheriff’s officials have repeatedly warned the public about deceptive currents, sudden drop-offs, and cold water temperatures that can quickly disorient even experienced swimmers.

“Our hearts go out to the victim’s family,” said a spokesperson from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office. “We urge everyone to be extremely cautious around the water. These rivers may appear calm on the surface, but they carry real and hidden dangers underneath.”

The name of the victim is being withheld pending official identification and notification of next of kin.

Community Response and Safety Push

As local communities reel from another heartbreaking loss, calls for increased public education and safety measures are growing. Some residents and safety advocates are calling for better signage, more patrols, and stronger warnings in popular recreation spots like Winton Park.

“Too many families are grieving,” said local resident Maria Ramos. “We love these rivers, but we need to respect them. More must be done to prevent tragedies like this.”

Fresno County officials continue to encourage the use of life jackets, especially in fast-moving or unfamiliar waters, and remind the public never to swim alone or under the influence of alcohol.

A Summer of Loss

This drowning is the fifth reported in 2025 in Fresno County alone, painting a grim picture of a summer overshadowed by recurring water-related fatalities. Sheriff’s deputies and local agencies remain committed to increasing public awareness and reinforcing the importance of water safety through outreach and prevention efforts.

An autopsy is scheduled to determine the exact cause of death, although preliminary findings point to accidental drowning. Further information, including the victim’s identity, may be released in the coming days.

If you have any information related to this incident or were present at Winton Park on Sunday afternoon, you are encouraged to contact the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.

For more updates on local safety and community alerts, visit The Chronicle.