Medford man, 18, dies in suspected drowning in Upper Mystic Lake

MEDFORD, Mass. — State Police confirm that an 18-year-old swimmer, who was missing at Upper Mystic Lake in Medford, has been found dead.

Authorities responded to the Mystic Valley Parkway in the area of the Tufts Sailing Pavillion at around 8 p.m. on Monday for reports of a possible drowning.

A State Police dive team was dispatched to the lake to assist local law enforcement in their search for the teen. Divers subsequently found the man in approximately 20 feet of water.

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First responders immediately began life-saving efforts and then rushed the man to Massachusetts General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at around 10 p.m.

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Preliminary investigation shows the man was unable to swim and that he appeared to be in distress as soon as he got into the water.

Cambridge Fire was also on scene to assist in the search, along with officials from Somerville Fire.

Arjun Jung Kunwar, President of the Greater Boston Nepali Community, identified the 18-year-old victim as Apurba Devkota, a Nepali man who had recently graduated from Medford High School and was set to attend college at UMass Boston.

The teen had gone swimming near the Medford Boat Club off of Mystic Valley Parkway in Medford.

"It's like almost once a year. It seems like something will happen, either somewhere up along Sandy Beach or something, unfortunately," said one neighbor. "Someone that just isn't a good swimmer. It gets very deep very quick here."

Police said they don't suspect any violence is involved and have not identified the victim at this point.

Medford Mayor Stephanie Burke and Superintendent Marice Edouard-Vincent released a joint statement on Tuesday lamenting the fatal drowning.

"As Mayor of Medford, but more importantly a mother, there is no greater loss than the loss of a child. A tragedy has occurred within our community, and for that I am heartbroken. Thank you to the Medford Police and Fire Departments, and all other first responders for their courageous actions during this very difficult time. As stated by Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan, this is an ongoing investigation and all questions should be referred to her office," said Mayor Stephanie M. Burke.

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of a young member of the Medford Public School community. A well-respected young man, who excelled academically and socially. Our sincerest condolences go out to the young man’s family and friends," said Dr. Marice Edouard-Vincent Superintendent of Medford Public Schools.

Counseling and support services will be provided to friends and community members at Medford High School’s Caron Theater on Tuesday July 2nd from 6:00p.m. – 8:00p.m. and Wednesday, July 3rd from 1:00p.m. – 3:00p.m.

Officials continue to investigate this incident.

Cox Media Group