Teenager drowns at Five Mile Dam

A 15-year-old male drowned at Five Mile Dam on Wednesday. 

Hays County Sheriff Gary Cutler identified the victim as Wyatt Kunze. Cutler called Wednesday’s incident as a “terrible, accidental drowning death.”

“This is strictly an accidental death,” Cutler said. “It’s a terrible accident and loss of a child.” 

Kunze, a Lockhart resident, traveled with a family member to Five Mile Dam on Wednesday. They began swimming in the river and decided to swim across to a rock formation on the other side. Kunze, who Cutler said wasn’t a strong swimmer, began struggling and went under. His family member tried to save him but couldn’t. 

County deputies responded to a report of a possible drowning at approximately 2:06 p.m. on Wednesday, officials said. The teenager was located in 10-20 foot water by the San Marcos Area Recovery Team around 3:27 p.m. where he had last been seen. The sheriff’s office was assisted by first responders from San Marcos, Kyle and Texas Parks and Wildlife. 

Cutler said there is no foul play suspected, or use alcohol or drugs.

A GoFundMe has been created for Kunze’s family, which described Wyatt as “very polite and respectful, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need, without even being asked.”

“(Kunze) was tall for his age at 6'3 and always had a smile on his handsome face,” the GoFundMe said. “He was active in football and auto mechanics. He helped his grandfather on their family farm. He loved animals and all living things. He loved playing on his PlayStation always with his friends and cousins. Wyatt was very much an outdoors person, who enjoyed fishing and hunting with the family. His mother and siblings are devastated.”

As of press time Thursday, the GoFundMe raised $3,435 with a goal of $7,000.

After Wednesday’s incident, Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra said the county is going through assessments to ensure everyone’s safety.

“That’s a conversation that we’ll have absolutely,” Becerra said. “We’re here for the people. We represent the people, and the conversation I’m sure will cross our path.”