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Update: Man who died at Modesto Reservoir identified by coroner’s office

Modesto Bee file

Authorities reported that another person drowned at Modesto Reservoir, the latest on Friday.

According to a Stanislaus Consolidated Fire District post, emergency units were dispatched to the reservoir east of Waterford at about 3:10 p.m. Friday for a reported drowning. A fire district water rescue team, the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department helicopter and sheriff divers were involved in a 40-minute search at the reservoir.

The rescue teams found the man and he was pronounced dead at the scene. It was the fourth drowning death at Modesto Reservoir since late June.

The man was identified as 58-year-old Venice resident Alberto Gonsalez.

Drowning deaths also occurred at Modesto Reservoir on June 29, July 2 and July 8.

The Stanislaus Consolidated post said Gonsalez was not wearing a life jacket. No other details were released on Friday’s incident.

Fire officials have encouraged anyone who swims in lakes and rivers to wear a life jacket. A free loaner program makes life jackets available to the public.

This story was originally published July 20, 2024 at 1:29 PM.

Ken Carlson
The Modesto Bee
Ken Carlson covers county government and health care for The Modesto Bee. His coverage of public health, medicine, consumer health issues and the business of health care has appeared in The Bee for 15 years.
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