Matthew Atchley : Tragic Loss: Father and Son Drown in Virginia Lake

LOUISA COUNTY, Va. — A heartbreaking incident unfolded over the Memorial Day weekend at Lake Anna in Virginia, where a father and son from Pennsylvania lost their lives in a drowning tragedy. The victims have been identified as Matthew Atchley and his 14-year-old son Tyler, according to reports from news outlets in Erie, Pennsylvania.

The Atchley family was in Virginia to celebrate a graduation when the unthinkable happened. As Tyler started to drown in Lake Anna, Matt bravely jumped into the water to save his son. Tragically, both father and son succumbed to the water’s depths despite the efforts of multiple bystanders who tried to assist them. The loss of these two beloved family members has left a deep void in the hearts of their loved ones.

A close friend of the Atchley family, Sabrina Griffin-Myers, set up a GoFundMe page to support the grieving family during this difficult time. The online fundraiser has already garnered over $20,000 in donations, showcasing the outpouring of support and sympathy from the community.

Details of the Tragic Incident

The tragic incident unfolded on Saturday around 1 p.m. near Carrs Bridge Road, where the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office received a distress call about a 14-year-old boy drowning in the lake. Emergency crews were immediately dispatched to the scene as the child’s father, Matt Atchley, courageously attempted to rescue his son.

Witnesses at the scene recounted seeing Matt struggling in the water as he tried to reach Tyler before disappearing from sight. Despite the valiant efforts of rescue teams, both bodies were later recovered from Lake Anna. The Louisa County Sheriff’s Office has ruled out foul play in this heartbreaking tragedy.

Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Those with pertinent details are encouraged to contact the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office at 540-967-1234 or Louisa Crime Solvers at 800-346-1466.

Continuing Support and Mourning

The community continues to rally around the Atchley family during this time of profound loss and grief. The memory of Matthew and Tyler Atchley will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved them. As the investigation into the tragedy progresses, the heartfelt support and solidarity from friends, family, and well-wishers serve as a source of comfort and strength for the bereaved.

This tragic incident serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of water safety, especially during holiday gatherings and celebrations. The Atchley family’s devastating loss has left a lasting impact on all who knew them, underscoring the need for vigilance and caution when near bodies of water.

As the community mourns the untimely passing of Matthew and Tyler Atchley, their legacy of love and courage lives on in the hearts of those who were touched by their presence. May they rest in peace, forever remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing them.