Five people die after an apparent mass drowning in Ohio following a rescue attempt for a struggling swimmer, authorities say. The incident occurs on Sunday night along the Scioto River at or near O’Shaughnessy Reservoir, about 10 miles northwest of Columbus, in the Powell/Delaware County area.
Reports describe a group of seven people near the river when one person goes into the water to swim. The swimmer gets into difficulty, prompting several adults to enter the river to help. During the rescue effort, multiple people drown, and five victims are confirmed dead.
Authorities also report that two young children remain on shore. One account says a motorist notices a distraught child running nearby and contacts 911, leading to emergency response.
Several outlets identify the victims as two married couples, including two women and three men. Additional reporting indicates at least two of the five victims are identified as a married couple from Honduras, with their children present at the scene.
The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office and local officials investigate the circumstances and sequence of events, including the decision to enter the water.
