JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Authorities from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office are currently investigating a drowning incident that occurred at William F. Sheffield Regional Park on the Northside.

During a press briefing on Tuesday evening, officials reported that they arrived at the park shortly after 3 p.m. Upon their arrival, they discovered the young man in the lake.

Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, the man was pronounced dead shortly after.

Investigators from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office have stated that the drowning appears to be accidental, with no evidence of foul play. Preliminary findings suggest the victim may have drowned while trying to retrieve his phone, which had fallen into the lake.

As of now, it remains unclear how far he ventured into the water or whether the cold weather played a role in the incident.

The victim’s identity has not been released by law enforcement at this time. 

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with additional information on the drowning is asked to contact the sheriff’s office at 904-630-0500.

We spoke with two brothers in the area who are familiar with the park. They decided to come out after seeing so much activity in the area.

“We just wanted to come see what was happening and maybe get answers about why all the police cars and fire trucks and all that was out here,” Dylan Huddleston said. 

“My friend said someone could have drowned,” Logan Gravely said. “And I was like, that’s a possibility. I know a lot of people swim, but it’s really cold out.”

The brothers say their thoughts are with the family as investigators continue to look for answers. 

“I hope the family is okay,” Huddleston said.