Lake Tahoe water rescue ends in person's death

A person recreating on Lake Tahoe died in a possible drowning Saturday, local officials said. Around 2:30 p.m. Saturday, first responders were called to the north shore of Lake Tahoe in Incline Village, Nev. A person who was reported to be drowning was found in the water, taken to shore and CPR was administered.

"Despite extensive lifesaving measures, the victim could not be revived and was pronounced deceased at the scene," the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District said in a press release. The person is not being identified pending the next-of-kin notification. The cause of death is under investigation.

"The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District extends its sincere condolences to the victim's family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time," the agency said.

Although summer crowds are heading to beaches, lakes and rivers, it's still a dangerous time on waterways. Along California's coast, multiple people have drowned amid record-high tides and rip currents. And although the temperature may be warm, the snowmelt that feeds waterways can make swimming conditions hazardous.

Nevada officials warn swimmers against entering any waterway that is too cold. "People are excited to get out on the water this summer," Ashley Zeme, Boating Education Coordinator at the Nevada Department of Wildlife, told the Sierra Sun. "Our issue is, outside temperatures can be deceiving. It could be a hot, sunny day, but our water is going to remain cold, and that's where cold water shock comes into play."

If you plan on swimming, use the buddy system, never dive headfirst into the water and wear a life jacket, California State Parks officials say.

Copyright 2026 Tribune Content Agency. All Rights Reserved.

This story was originally published June 14, 2026 at 10:38 AM.