SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY, VA – A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on the Rappahannock River when a father and his six-year-old son drowned during what was supposed to be a peaceful day by the water. Authorities have identified the victims as Danny Sumner and his young son.
According to the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred on the evening of March 22 at a boat landing near Legacy Lane. Sometime before 5 p.m., Sumner and his son arrived at the location, presumably for an outing by the river. Hours later, when they failed to return home, Sumner’s wife became worried and contacted the authorities at around 9:45 p.m.
Deputies responded immediately and began a search operation. Sumner’s vehicle was located in the area, and his cell phone was found on the river dock, raising fears that something had gone terribly wrong. The Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office Dive Team was called in, and after entering the river, they tragically discovered both father and son deceased.
Investigators believe the accident was caused by a tragic chain of events. According to the initial findings, the young boy had just caught a fish when he accidentally fell off the dock into the river. In a desperate attempt to save his son, Sumner jumped in after him but was unable to make it back to safety. Both victims drowned, and authorities have found no evidence of foul play.
The devastating loss has left the community shaken, with friends and neighbors expressing their condolences to the Sumner family. Tragic drownings like this serve as a reminder of the dangers that bodies of water can pose, especially for young children. Authorities urge families to practice water safety, including wearing life jackets and ensuring close supervision near water.
As the investigation continues, the Sumner family is left grieving an unimaginable loss. The tragic accident highlights the selfless love of a father who did everything he could to save his son.
