Man drowns at Willard Bay, one week after another drowning at the lake

WILLARD, Utah — The body of a 38-year-old Layton man has been found at Willard Bay State Park, exactly one week after another drowning took place at the lake.

Andre Leon Debose was swimming and boating with his 17-year-old son on Saturday, when bad weather hit the family, according to a press release sent by the Utah Department of Natural Resources. 

The UDNR said Debose’s son saw a 19-year-old woman wearing a life jacket who was having a hard time swimming in the water. That’s when Debose’s son jumped in to help the woman.

The woman was able to get back on a boat, however Debose’s son began having trouble swimming in the water, leading to Debose jumping in to help his son.

According to the press release, the father and son were able to hold onto one single life jacket when Debose went under the water. Debose was not seen resurfacing as his son made it back onto the boat.

Search and recovery

Utah State Parks law enforcement rangers went out to the area where Debose was last seen to begin searching for him.

According to UDNR, Debose’s body was recovered around 11:15 p.m. on Saturday night.

“The Utah Division of State Parks extends our deepest condolences to Debose’s family and friends during this difficult time,” UDNR said. “We would also like to express our thanks to the agencies who assisted in the search and recovery efforts.”

Search and rescue teams included the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation ROV Team, Box Elder County Search and Rescue, and Weber County Search and Rescue.

Water safety

Just one week ago, another drowning occurred at Willard Bay after bad weather hit a family who was boating.

“As the recreation season continues, we urge all outdoor recreators to prioritize safety,” UDNR said.

Ways to stay safe in the water include:

• Going swimming with another person
• Wearing a life jacket
• Keep up to date with the weather
• Make sure someone knows your location and when you will return