A weekend camping and fishing getaway along the Indian River ended in tragedy Saturday when friends pulled 16-year-old Hunter McKelvin of Paisley from the water near an island east of Maynard May Park, authorities said.
McKelvin was found face-down in the river during the group outing, according to officials. His friends brought him onto their boat, started CPR, and rushed him back to Maynard May Park. Edgewater police officers and emergency medical personnel continued life-saving efforts at the park before McKelvin was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 9:30 a.m., authorities said.
Detectives with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the circumstances surrounding the teen’s death. Deputies said there were no initial signs of suspicious circumstances and no other injuries reported, according to FOX 35 Orlando.
Where It Happened
Maynard May Park sits along the Indian River in Edgewater and is a popular launch point for anglers and small boats. The stretch of river has seen previous water-rescue and recovery operations; in 2014, a boater’s body was recovered near the park, according to News 13.
Investigation And Next Steps
An autopsy has been scheduled for Monday to determine McKelvin’s official cause of death, deputies said. The investigation will remain active while those results are pending, and officials have not released additional details as detectives continue interviewing witnesses and reviewing the scene, according to FOX 35 Orlando.
River Safety Reminders
Florida wildlife and boating officials continue to urge everyone heading out on the water to wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets and to file a float plan before launching. Modern life jackets are lighter and more comfortable than older styles and can dramatically improve survival odds, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Boaters are also advised to check weather forecasts, avoid alcohol while operating any vessel, and make sure someone onshore knows their planned route and expected return time.
