Father dies saving son after kayak capsizes in Lake Perris

PERRIS, Calif. (KESQ) - A 54-year-old man was killed while trying to save his 7-year-old son after their kayak capsized in the Lake Perris State Recreation Area.

California State Parks peace officers at Lake Perris responded to reports of screaming and persons in distress in the water near Moreno Beach around 4:15 p.m. Saturday.

The father and son had been kayaking offshore when their kayak capsized. According to the CSP, neither of them were wearing a life jacket, but there was one on the vessel.

State park peace officers arrived on scene via patrol vessel and recovered the man, who was unconscious and partially submerged. The 7-year-old boy was in distress but conscious and holding onto his father, helping to keep himself above water.

Investigators said that the father heroically kept his son afloat throughout the ordeal, supporting him until rescue personnel arrived.   

Officers began CPR on the father after pulling him and his son out. Both were subsequently rushed to Riverside University Health System, where the father was pronounced dead. The 7-year-old was being evaluated.   

The CSP extended their condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this tragedy and reminded the public to wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times while recreating near or on the water.

The incident remained under investigation by CSP law enforcement and the Riverside County Sheriff Coroner's Office.