Anderson Man, Jose Isidro Felipe Garcia, 29, Dies After Drowning at Broyles Landing on Lake Hartwell in Townville

A 29-year-old Anderson man died Sunday afternoon after drowning in Lake Hartwell while swimming back to shore from a nearby island, the Anderson County Coroner’s Office confirmed.

Jose Isidro Felipe Garcia was identified as the victim. He had been spending time at the lake with friends and family at Broyles Landing in Townville when the tragedy occurred.

According to Coroner Greg Shore, Anderson County 911 received the call just after 2 p.m. First responders located Garcia’s body within 25 minutes of arriving on the scene.

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Authorities used sonar technology to locate Garcia beneath the surface before divers retrieved him from the water. He was found in roughly 5 to 6 feet of water. The coroner’s office determined the cause of death to be freshwater drowning and ruled the manner of death accidental.

Garcia was not wearing a life preserver at the time of the incident. Witnesses told investigators he had been swimming back toward shore from an island on the lake when he went underwater and never resurfaced. Alcohol did not appear to be a factor, according to the coroner.

The Anderson County Dive Team and Technical Rescue Team responded alongside other emergency personnel. The scene remains under active investigation by the Anderson County Office of the Coroner, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, and the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office.

A Reminder About Water Safety

The incident is a sobering reminder of the dangers that can come with open water swimming, even in familiar or seemingly calm conditions. Lake Hartwell, a popular recreation spot straddling the South Carolina and Georgia border, draws thousands of visitors during the summer months.

Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death in the United States, and the risk increases significantly without proper flotation devices.

Water safety officials consistently urge swimmers to wear life jackets, avoid swimming alone or away from designated areas, and stay close to shore, especially in open water where currents and depth can shift unexpectedly.

Even strong swimmers can struggle in freshwater environments where conditions underfoot or beneath the surface may be unpredictable.

Garcia’s death marks a painful loss for his loved ones who were present that afternoon. The group had gathered for what was an ordinary summer outing before the situation turned fatal within minutes.

Investigation Continues

Officials say the investigation remains ongoing as multiple agencies continue to review the circumstances surrounding Garcia’s death. No foul play is suspected at this time based on preliminary findings.

The Anderson County Coroner’s Office has not indicated whether an autopsy will be conducted. Further details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.

Broyles Landing is a public boat access area managed for recreational use on Lake Hartwell. Local authorities have not issued any specific warnings or closures related to the area following the incident.