The tragic incident unfolded late on Saturday, May 18, when one of the boys, Rayan Alnasser, succumbed to the strong current after jumping from the Twelve Mile River Bridge. Witness accounts suggest that he may have landed awkwardly, contributing to his distress. Seeing his friend in trouble, Zakaria Chaar bravely attempted to rescue him, but he too was swept away by the relentless water. A third teenager present at the scene promptly alerted authorities through a 911 call.
Emergency responders arrived swiftly and launched a comprehensive search operation involving divers, boats, and sonar equipment. Cadaver dogs were also deployed to assist in the search. On Monday, May 20, after an extensive search, divers located the bodies of both boys in the lake’s depths, approximately 15 feet below the surface.
The news of this heartbreaking loss has deeply affected the families, friends, and the entire Pickens County community. The School District of Pickens County expressed its profound condolences and pledged to provide support and care to students, staff, and families during this difficult time.
Rayan Alnasser, a member of Daniel High School’s soccer team, was remembered fondly by his coach, Thomas Izaguirre Bonilla. In a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, Coach Bonilla expressed his grief and cherished memories of Rayan, highlighting his talent and the love and respect he had earned from his team and the wider community.
This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of reckless behavior and the importance of prioritizing safety. It underscores the need for responsible decision-making, particularly among young people, and the crucial role of parental guidance and open dialogue in fostering an environment where teens feel comfortable seeking support and making wise choices.
