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Heroic Father Drowns Trying to Save Son and Friend in Texas River Tragedy
14 Nov
Summary
- William Poff, 53, died trying to rescue his son and son's friend from overturned kayak
- Two teenage boys also died in the incident on Trinity River in Texas
- Poff's estranged wife says they have 5 kids together

On November 9, 2022, a tragic incident unfolded on the Trinity River in Texas. According to authorities, a kayak carrying two teenage boys capsized due to choppy river conditions. In a desperate attempt to save the boys, William Poff, the 53-year-old father of one of the victims, jumped into the river. Tragically, Poff did not resurface, and the two boys also perished in the incident.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department confirmed that Poff's body was recovered from the river three days later, on November 12, 2022. Poff's estranged wife, Julia, revealed that the two boys were her son Jake, 14, and his friend. She also shared that the family has five children together, making this loss even more devastating.
The San Jacinto County Sheriff's Office extended their heartfelt condolences to the victims' loved ones, acknowledging the profound impact this tragedy has had on the community. The authorities praised the dedication and compassion of the agencies and volunteers who assisted in the search and recovery efforts.




