Tragic Drowning Incident at West Point Lake Claims Life of Young Swimmer
Troup County, GA — July 6, 2025
A somber mood hangs over Troup County following the tragic drowning of a young man at West Point Lake. On the evening of Saturday, July 5th, at approximately 8:50 PM, Troup County 911 received an urgent call reporting that a swimmer had gone underwater and failed to resurface at Horace King Park off Roanoke Road.
Local emergency response teams, including the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, quickly arrived at the scene. Upon confirmation that the swimmer remained missing, the Troup County Fire Department Dive Team was activated.
After an intense search, the victim was recovered from the water at around 10:14 PM. Authorities have identified him as Marquis Rice, a 21-year-old resident of Forsyth, Georgia.
The Troup County Sheriff’s Office has indicated that, based on current information, the incident appears to be a tragic swimming accident.
This heartbreaking event marks the second drowning at West Point Lake in less than a week, highlighting the serious risks associated with swimming in large bodies of water. The sheriff’s office expressed their condolences, stating, “Our hearts are with these victims’ families during this time.”
As the community mourns, local authorities are reminding residents and visitors to exercise caution when enjoying water activities, and to always prioritize safety — especially during peak summer months when lake activity increases.