5-year-old dead, father missing after inflatable inner tube capsizes on river
CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio. (WOIO/Gray News) - A 5-year-old died, and his father is currently missing after their inflatable inner tube capsized on a river in Ohio.
On June 22, responders recovered the body of 5-year-old Braxton Cross. However, officials are still searching for his father, Patrick Cross.
Cuyahoga Falls Fire Chief Chris Martin said they received multiple 911 calls for a father and child on an inner tube that went into the rapids and overturned near the Portage Trail Bridge in Cuyahoga Falls at approximately 6:48 p.m.
According to a GoFundMe page, Patrick was also with his wife, along with his 3-year-old son, when the inner tube capsized. However, they were able to make it back to shore.
Cuyahoga Falls Mayor Don Walters said, “Our thoughts are with the family during this tragic time. The Cuyahoga Falls Fire Department, along with our county partners, remain committed to continuing search efforts throughout the day,” in a statement Sunday afternoon.
Cuyahoga Falls officials said the third day of the search has turned the rescue mission into a recovery mission.
Firefighter Daniel Pittman said the Cuyahoga River depth fluctuates from 20 feet to ankle-deep.
“That river is a living, breathing animal,” Pittman stated.
Officials said updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
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