Father and daughter drown in Texas river on Father’s Day
Tragic accident claims life of dad and daughter in Texas river on Father’s Day.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragedy struck the Chavajay family on Father’s Day when a fun outing turned into a nightmare as father Santos Otoniel, 38, and daughter Darcy Michelle, 14, drowned in the San Jacinto River.
Heartbroken Family Appeals for Support
The devastated family is now reaching out to the community for assistance in laying their loved ones to rest. A body believed to be that of the missing girl, Darcy Michelle Chavajay, was recovered late Sunday, while the body of her father, Santos Otoniel Chavajayas, was found on Monday morning in approximately 15 feet of water, as confirmed by Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.
A Mother’s Unfathomable Grief
“I couldn’t believe it, I was in shock, it’s not true. I still can’t believe it,” expressed Dominga Cuz-Chaox, the wife and mother left behind by the tragic incident. She never imagined that her husband and daughter would never return home.
Tragic Turn of Events
According to Dominga, Otoniel and Michelle had gone to the river with other family members and friends while she stayed back with their younger children. As the sun began to set, Michelle asked her father to take a picture of her in the river.
“She was halfway into the water with her arms up, asking for help. Her dad jumped in, but they never came out,” Dominga shared.
Bright Futures Cut Short
Michelle, a cheerful middle school student with dreams of becoming a pediatrician, was described by her mother as disciplined and eager to learn. Plans were in motion for her upcoming quinceañera.
Otoniel, the family’s sole provider, was hailed by his brother as a hard-working and responsible man.
A Mother’s Strength
As Dominga grapples with the immense loss, she finds solace in the belief that her departed loved ones will always be watching over them. With a 3-year-old and an 11-month-old to care for alone, she draws on her inner strength to face each day.
Community Support Needed
The family is now seeking assistance to repatriate Otoniel and Michelle’s bodies to Guatemala, allowing Otoniel’s mother and Michelle’s grandmother the chance to bid their final farewells. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help support the family during this difficult time.
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1. Dad and daughter drown in Texas river on Father’s Day
2. Dad and daughter drown in Texas river on Father’s Day tragedy.
