Austin resident drowns in San Marcos River

Over $13,000 has been raised for a 26-year-old Austin resident, who drowned in the San Marcos River on Saturday.

Ryan Hyman’s body was recovered from the river Sunday morning by a search conducted by the Texas Game Wardens, South Hays Fire Department and Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office.

In a GoFundMe fundraiser, Hyman was described as a “a bright light; his warm smile and contagious laughter touched all those who crossed his path.”

“He was truly loved, and it is hard to imagine day-to-day life without him,” Zack Zavala wrote on GoFundMe. “Ryan touched many lives, which has never been more apparent than now. He put so much love and life into each and every relationship during his time here. The outpouring of love and support has been overwhelming and such a comfort during this difficult time. With the blessing of Ryan’s mom we are raising funds to support his family in the wake of this tragic accident.”

The Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office believes Hyman’s death is nothing more than a terrible accident. 

The Caldwell and Guadalupe County sheriff’s offices were notified of a missing tuber on the San Marcos River in Martindale around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, according to Texas Parks & Wildlife. 

Hyman left his tube to swim after another tube that drifted away from his group and began to struggle with the water, Game Warden Joann Garza-Mayberry said in a press release. 

“Due to the heavy congestion of tubers on the river, the people in his party were unable to reach him,” Garza-Mayberry said. “However, two bystanders who also observed the victim struggling in the water jumped in the water to attempt to reach him. The two bystanders were unable to reach him before he disappeared into the water. After extensive witness interviews and searches at all potential river take-outs, the search was discontinued until the following morning.”

Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office is conducting the investigation and will conduct an autopsy to determine if alcohol was a factor in Hyman’s death. 

“At this time we will be attending the autopsy in Travis County, and should have some results in 6-8 weeks,” GCSO Sergeant Robert Murphy said. He added that investigators could not confirm whether or not Hyman could swim. 

After Saturday’s incident, Texas Parks & Wildlife stressed the importance of tubing the San Marcos River with caution.  

 “As tubing on the San Marcos River becomes more popular every year, so do the dangers of overcrowding on the river, in addition to natural hazards like rushing rapids, swift currents and river eddies,” Garza-Mayberry said. “We ask that all river-goers be aware of their surroundings, stay hydrated and consume alcohol in moderation, to avoid the numerous risks present on the river.”

As of press time Tuesday, the GoFundMe campaign has raised $13,041 with all funds going directly to the Hyman family.