A tragedy unfolded in Port St. Lucie earlier this week, as a fishing trip turned fatal for a local teenager. According to WPBF, 16-year-old Ja'Quon Madaris drowned while fishing with two friends under the Twin Bridges on SE Port St. Lucie Boulevard.
The three attempted to cross a perimeter of mangroves when the water depth became too much for Madaris who couldn't swim and submerged under the water and did not resurface, this happened despite the aid of his friends and the swift action of emergency services including dive teams and a helicopter which were dispatched to locate him body finally was found after an extensive search. The Port St. Lucie Police Department, as reported by CBS12 News, confirmed there was no suspicion of foul play linked to this incident.
Assistant Chief Leo Niemczyk from the Port St. Lucie Police Department underscored the dangers present in such activities for those who are not strong swimmers and recommended the use of life jackets or flotation devices, "If you’re not a strong swimmer, consider carrying or wearing a life jacket, a floatation device - having it handy. One of his friends could’ve thrown one to him if they had one available," he told CBS12 News.
The community has been hit hard by the loss. Ja'Quon, known to be a beloved son and active community member, has been promoting his fishing YouTube page on social media, having talked about how much he enjoyed it. In the wake of his passing, the family is left grappling with the weight of grief. His father, Richard Madaris, was quoted by CBS12 News as saying, "I just want my son back." While fighting back tears outside their family home, the police extended, "Our sincerest condolences go out to the family and friends of the young man who lost his life."
