x
Breaking News
More () »

Body of drowning victim recovered from Dalton lake

Crews recovered the victim's body after an hours-long search of Haig Mill Lake Park.

DALTON, Ga. — The body of a 26-year-old man was recovered from Haig Mill Lake Park in Dalton Saturday night.

Officials said a person fishing first called 911 for help, but when first responders arrived, there was no sign of the victim. 

After an hours-long search, with the assistance of the Department of Natural Resources and the Georgia State Patrol, the man's body was found in the lake. He was later identified as Ivan Gonzalez, 26, of Calhoun. 

Investigators believe Gonzalez had been out on the water using kayaks with his brother-in-law and apparently took off his life vest while near a dock on the lake. 

At some point, the victim swam out into the lake to possibly retrieve a kayak that had drifted away. While swimming, he became tired and began calling for help, but eventually fell below the surface of the water. 

Authorities said there is no indication of any foul play. 

Haig Mill Lake Park remained closed through Sunday. 

Before You Leave, Check This Out