SAN ANTONIO — The search for a missing 41-year-old man who went underwater at Canyon Lake Sunday evening and never resurfaced has come to an end, Comal County authorities say.
The man has been identified as Robbie Berlingeri. Comal County Emergency Services District 3 said Berlingeri went missing around 8 p.m. Sunday during a Fourth of July celebration.
A GoFundMe has been created in honor of his daughter, Sydalee. The post details how she was his only child. "His life. His joy. His love. She had him wrapped around her little finger.... From the moment she came into this world, he became a father and a protector. He knew he would do any for Sydalee and he did."
The post is asking the community for financial help in setting up a trust for Sydalee. "Any donations would be greatly appreciated and used for the sole purpose of providing Sydalee with everything she needs."
Berlingeri's brother-in-law, Clint Gardner, told KENS 5 that he fell off the back of the boat with his 2-year-old daughter. The mom jumped in to help and the two were tossing their daughter back and forth while trying to stay afloat. People from another boat were able to save the mom and daughter, but when they turned back around Berlingeri was gone.
On Tuesday afternoon, just before 3 p.m., his body was recovered, according to Comal County fire chief Robert Mikel
You can donate to the GoFundMe here.
Back in June, there were two drownings in close succession, prompting federal officials to close some recreational areas out of concern for safety.