Boy drowns in Jordan Lake during birthday party, Chatham Sheriff's Office says

A boy visiting Jordan Lake to celebrate a friend's birthday drowned Sunday afternoon while going swimming near a picnic area off Beaver Creek Road, according to the county sheriff's office of Chatham.

Bryan Guzman, 16, of Winston-Salem, had come to the lake with his older brother and a friend to celebrate his birthday at a picnic area near Ebenezer Point on the lake's east shore.

Around 3:30 p.m., Bryan's 18-year-old brother called 911 to say he was in distress while swimming in a creek near the picnic area, according to the sheriff's office. The cove is not a designated swimming area and there were no lifeguards nearby.

In addition to the Sheriff's Office, the North Chatham Fire Department, NC State Parks and FirstHealth EMS responded to the call. The sheriff's office's victim services unit is working with the Guzman family, Sheriff Mike Roberson said.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the Guzman family during this very difficult time,” Roberson said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with them as they mourn the loss of their son and brother. »

The Memorial Day weekend drowning highlights the need to be careful around the lake, the sheriff's office said. He urged people to wear a life jacket when on the water; swim only in designated areas; closely supervise children and be aware of water conditions and your surroundings.