An 11-year-old girl tragically drowned in Alameda Creek on May 27, despite the efforts of community members and first responders. Fremont Police Department officers were called to the scene near Niles Canyon Road, north of Mission Boulevard, at approximately 5:49 p.m., where they found bystanders attempting to pull the victim, Dana Nino Gonzalez, from the water, as reported by the Alameda County Sheriff's Office.
According to official reports, Dana was found stuck against a flow control structure in the creek. Both Fremont Police and Fremont Fire Department personnel bravely entered the water to rescue Dana quickly. They retrieved her and immediately began lifesaving measures. Paramedics subsequently transported Dana to Washington Hospital, where she ultimately succumbed despite the vigorous resuscitation attempts.
The Alameda County Sheriff's Office, which holds jurisdiction over the creek area where the incident occurred, is now leading the ongoing investigation. The Sheriff's Office expressed gratitude towards "the community members involved, the Fremont Police Department, the Fremont Fire Department, Falck, and the Washington Hospital Healthcare System staff for their efforts to save Dana's life." The tragic event has deeply saddened the local community and authorities alike.
Reflecting on the incident, the Alameda County Sheriff's Office has issued reminders regarding safety measures for the public to follow when partaking in water activities during the warm-weather season. They emphasized the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, including observing warning signs, developing a safety plan, wearing appropriate safety gear like life jackets, never swimming alone, and avoiding water bodies if unfamiliar with swimming or current conditions. The Alameda County Sheriff's Office encouraged the public "to follow as you enjoy warm-weather activities near waterways."
