1. Pueblo Lake drowning victim mourned by family
2. Family grieves loss of 40-year-old drowning victim in Pueblo Lake.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : A tragic incident unfolded on a pleasant Saturday at Lake Pueblo State Park, resulting in the loss of a swimmer who had been enjoying a day out with friends and family. The victim, 40-year-old Juan Jimenez, had recently relocated to Colorado Springs with his loved ones. This outing to Lake Pueblo State Park was among his first recreational activities since moving to the area, and he was accompanied by his brother-in-law, close friends, his wife, and children.
According to Jimenez’s older sister, Maria Jimenez, the waters at the park were calm and posed no immediate danger when the group decided to take a swim. While on a tree partially submerged in the water, Jimenez and his brother-in-law were enjoying the surroundings when he accidentally fell into the water. It is believed that the impact of the fall may have caused Jimenez to lose his breath, leading him to drift further away from the shore.
Despite being a proficient swimmer, Jimenez’s family became concerned when they noticed his absence. The group initiated a search while bystanders joined in and emergency services were contacted. Tragically, Jimenez was reported missing around 8 p.m., and after three hours of search efforts, his body was recovered by volunteer divers from the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office around 11 p.m. He was found approximately 75 feet from the shore in shallow water.
The Pueblo County coroner determined Jimenez’s death as a swimming accident. This unfortunate incident marked the 19th water-related fatality in Colorado this year, according to unofficial statistics from Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Having arrived in the United States only three months prior in pursuit of a better future for his children, Jimenez and his family were seeking asylum from Mexico. Their goal was to provide enhanced educational opportunities for their three children, aged 12, 9, and 6, by moving to Colorado Springs. In Mexico, Jimenez was known for his love of nature and outdoor activities, particularly swimming, which he often shared with others.
As the youngest sibling in his family, Jimenez was fondly remembered for his loving and helpful nature. His siblings, who essentially raised him, considered him an ideal brother. While awaiting asylum approval, Jimenez supported his family by assisting friends with their businesses whenever possible.
With uncertain times ahead due to their asylum status, Jimenez’s family is making arrangements to repatriate his body to Mexico for the funeral. To alleviate the financial burden, a GoFundMe page has been set up, raising over $2,000 in less than a week. Maria, on behalf of the family, expressed gratitude for any support during this challenging period.
In conclusion, Juan Jimenez’s untimely passing has left a void in the lives of his loved ones, who remember him for his dedication to family and his aspirations for a brighter future. The family’s journey towards healing and stability continues as they navigate the complexities of seeking asylum and honouring Jimenez’s memory..
Family mourns Pueblo Lake drowning victim
40-year-old Pueblo Lake drowning victim family mourns.
