Tragic Drowning of College Student in Lake Havasu

Categories: College University AthleticsCollege/University NewsEducation

The serene beauty of Lake Havasu reminds us of the importance of safety in water activities.

News Summary

An 18-year-old freshman from California State University, Fullerton, drowned in Lake Havasu during a fraternity trip. The incident occurred amid hazardous swimming conditions created by heavy rainfall. Despite attempts to rescue him, the student disappeared. A search team later recovered his body. The university community mourns his passing, with counseling services now available for impacted students. This tragedy adds to concerns over water safety as another drowning was reported at a nearby lake.

Lake Havasu City, Arizona – An 18-year-old freshman from California State University, Fullerton, tragically drowned in Lake Havasu during a fraternity trip over the weekend. Simon T. Daniel, originally from Pinole, California, was part of a group of six students, including three fraternity brothers and two sorority members, when the incident occurred on Saturday afternoon, May 17, around 3 PM.

Prior to the students’ arrival, heavy rainfall in the area created hazardous swimming conditions characterized by strong currents, crosswinds, and swells in the water. Despite these conditions, the group decided to swim. During the swim, several fraternity members attempted to rescue their peers who were struggling in the water. Reports indicate that a sudden wave swept Simon away from the rescuers, after which he disappeared beneath the surface.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department was immediately notified of the situation, and emergency responders quickly arrived to help. Search efforts included divers and remotely operated vehicles to locate Simon. Following an extensive search, Daniel’s body was recovered the next morning, May 18, at approximately 8:54 AM.

Simon T. Daniel was a computer science major known for his love of music and his kind spirit. In the wake of his tragic passing, over 200 fellow students attended a candlelight vigil hosted by his fraternity, Sigma Pi, on the evening of May 18. During the vigil, Daniel was remembered by his peers as “the heart of the fraternity,” highlighting his joyful and genuine personality.

In response to Simon’s untimely death, Cal State Fullerton has made counseling services available for students impacted by the event. The university community is collectively mourning the loss of Daniel as they come to terms with the tragedy. The Sigma Pi fraternity has expressed profound grief over the incident while emphasizing the deep connection their members shared with Simon.

This tragic drowning incident is part of a sorrowful weekend in the region that also saw the drowning of a student from UC Santa Barbara at Big Bear Lake, further heightening concerns over water safety conditions amid recent weather events. As the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Daniel’s drowning continues, both university officials and local authorities are likely to review safety protocols for students participating in similar activities in the future.

The Cal State Fullerton community has expressed their condolences and solidarity as they navigate this difficult time, focusing on supporting each other in the aftermath of this heartbreaking loss. Faculty and staff have provided resources aimed at mental health and emotional support for students during this period of mourning, underscoring the importance of community in times of tragedy.

As the community reflects on Simon T. Daniel’s life, many are committed to remembering him not only for the circumstances of his passing but for the vibrant spirit and passion he brought to those around him. His legacy will continue to be honored by friends, family, and classmates in the days to come.