Authorities identify body found at Falls Lake

WAKE COUNTY (WTVD) -- Authorities have confirmed that a body was found in Falls Lake around 9:30 a.m. on Saturday.

The body was identified as 23-year-old Emmanuel Diaz Juarez of Raleigh, family members confirmed.

Juarez's body was taken to the Medical Examiner's Office. The investigation is still ongoing.

The sheriff's office got a call around 5 p.m. Friday about a possible drowning incident and said some people at the lake saw what they thought was a male swimmer in distress in the lake.

A search didn't turn up anything Friday, but Wake County Sheriff Donnie Harrison said a "vehicle of interest" was found near the lake; the sheriff's office later identified Juarez as the owner.

Northern Wake Fire Department, Wildlife, NC State Parks, Wake EMS, and Durham County Sheriff's Office Dive Team assisted in the operation.

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Neighbors said this was a tragic incident.

"It's really sad, really sad," said Kim Lennon. "Maybe he wasn't a strong enough swimmer to persevere the depth of that water.

Authorities believe Juarez may have tried to swim outside of the designated safety area.

Officials want to remind the public to be safe when swimming without lifeguards.

Park Ranger Scott Avis said despite safety measures officials take, people still lose their lives in waters that can appear safe and calm.

"We provide life jackets for the public, we encourage them to swim in designated swim areas, and we check those areas to make sure they're clear of underwater hazards," said Avis. "We also encourage people not to swim alone."