BEXAR COUNTY, Texas — The Bexar County Sheriff's Office said authorities recovered a body in Calaveras Lake believed to be the boater who went missing on the morning of Fourth of July.
Sheriff Javier Salazar said the man was a 36-year-old staff sergeant in the U.S. Army. Friday, the Medical Examiner identified him as 36-year-old Deshawn Walker.
He was found early Wednesday afternoon by the Bexar County Sheriff's Marine Unit—ending a 28-hour "around-the-clock" search.
Salazar said it's believed the incident was accidental, but authorities will continue to investigate. The sheriff said Walker leaves behind a wife and children.
He said BCSO and the victim's friends in the military rendered a final salute.
Searchers were concentrating their efforts in a part of the lake that's about 23 feet deep, according to an update Salazar provided Tuesday afternoon. On Wednesday he said the victim wasn't believed to have been a strong swimmer.
"My understanding is one of the men tried to jump in and rescue him but he was not successful.”
'It can create some havoc'
Anthony Soler, a fishing guide, said he suspects the wind may have played a factor.
“The wind seems to be the biggest element changer that can cause a life-threatening situation," Soler said.
Soler was planning on going out to the lake Tuesday but once he checked the weather, he changed his mind.
“It can create some havoc out there," Soler said.
Soler and Salazar both emphasized the importance of wearing a life jacket anytime you are out on the water.
“It’s not the most comfortable thing in the world to have on but its just necessary," Salazar said.
This is a developing story. Check back with KENS5.com for updates.
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