19-year-old from Knightdale drowned at Falls Lake, officials say
Officials have identified the 19-year-old who drowned Easter Sunday at Falls Lake as Amir Tamel Crawford of Knightdale.
Witnesses told deputies they were swimming near a rocky area of the lake when the teen called for help and then suddenly went underwater. One of the victim’s friends attempted to rescue him, but was unsuccessful.
A Wake County Sheriff's boat team was deployed within minutes of the call to begin the search, and at approximately 10:30 p.m., they located the body.
Since 2016, the Wake County Sheriff’s Office has responded to six drownings at Falls Lake. Spokesperson Eric Curry said safety must come first when you're on the water.
"Safety should always be the first thing you think about and not just having a good time," Curry said. "We come out here too many times because of no respect for the waters here at Falls Lake."
A similar incident happened last year in the same area to a Wakefield High School student and football player Davion Davis.
Curry says cautions must be taken to avoid future tragedies.
"Be careful, be cognizant where you are, and wear a life vest," he said. "Whether you're fishing or on a boat, which is required, or even wading in the water, you should always think of safety first."
