21-Year-Old Arizona Lake Drowning Victim Identified

Authorities have identified the man who drowned at Bartlett Lake this weekend as 21-year-old Juan Ojeda-Valdez.

According to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred on Saturday. Ojeda-Valdez was reportedly walking across S.B. Cove around 4:30 p.m. when he lost his footing and submerged. Despite attempts to help him, he did not resurface.

Witnesses indicated that cold water temperatures and unexpected depth may have played a role in the tragedy. One friend attempted to assist but started struggling himself, managing to swim back to safety. Nearby boats also intervened in the rescue efforts.

The sheriff’s Lake Patrol Dive Team was called to recover Ojeda-Valdez’s body. Officials confirmed he was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.

As the investigation continues, authorities report no signs of foul play. Further updates will emerge as more information becomes available.