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Dad Drowns in Georgia Creek Over Memorial Day
28 May
Summary
- A father of two drowned in Noonday Creek on Memorial Day weekend.
- He was swept away by strong currents after attempting to swim across.
- Recent storms had significantly raised the creek's water level.

A devastating event occurred in Georgia during the Memorial Day weekend, claiming the life of Otoniel Cruz, a 31-year-old father of two young children. Cruz tragically drowned in Noonday Creek after attempting to swim across the water on Sunday, May 24. Authorities were alerted to his disappearance at Noonday Park just before 10 p.m. that evening.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Cruz was swept away by the creek's powerful current after entering the water. The creek's water level had risen significantly due to recent storms, making the conditions exceptionally dangerous. A coordinated search involving multiple agencies, including fire and sheriff's departments, was launched to find him.
Search crews utilized advanced equipment, such as thermal imaging and drones, in their efforts. Sadly, Cruz's body was recovered on the morning of Monday, May 25. He had been at the park with family and friends prior to the fatal incident. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death is ongoing.