WASHINGTON, D.C. — A Sunday afternoon swim turned tragic when 18-year-old Manuel De Jesus Flores Bustillo drowned in the Potomac River near Cockpit Point. The young man, a resident of Dumfries, Virginia, was swimming with friends when he was caught in a sudden surge of strong currents and pulled underwater.
What Happened
According to Maryland Natural Resources Police, the incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. on Sunday. Bustillo and two friends had been enjoying the day near the Virginia shoreline when they decided to swim the length of a long pier that stretched out into Maryland waters.
The group reportedly reached the twelfth piling along the pier before deciding to return to shore. But as they turned back, the tide began to rise, and powerful currents surged through the river channel.
One of the swimmers managed to make it back to shore safely. Another clung desperately to one of the pier pilings until help arrived. Bustillo, however, attempted to grab onto a piling as well but lost his grip and slipped beneath the surface. He did not resurface.
Recovery Efforts
A multi-agency rescue and recovery effort was launched immediately. First responders from both Maryland and Virginia joined the search, including Maryland Natural Resources Police and Virginia-based emergency units.
After several hours of searching, Bustillo’s body was recovered at approximately 7:30 p.m. by the Prince William County Police Dive Team. Officials say the recovery took place near the area where he was last seen.
No Signs of Foul Play
An initial forensic examination found no signs of trauma or foul play on Bustillo’s body. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is now working to determine whether an autopsy will be conducted, though officials believe the cause of death was accidental drowning.
The Prince William County Police Department is leading the investigation, which remains ongoing pending the final report.
A Stark Reminder of River Dangers
While summer outings to the river are a common pastime for many in the region, this tragic event serves as a powerful reminder of the hidden dangers that natural bodies of water can pose—especially the Potomac River, which is known for its unpredictable currents and sudden tide shifts.
Local authorities often warn swimmers that conditions can change rapidly and that even strong swimmers may struggle in certain parts of the river. The stretch of water near Cockpit Point has previously been cited as hazardous due to its changing tides and underwater terrain.
Community in Mourning
News of Bustillo’s death has left the Dumfries community grieving. Friends and neighbors describe him as a bright and kind-hearted young man who had just started looking ahead to adulthood. A memorial is expected to be held in the coming days, though no official announcements have been made.
Authorities are urging all river-goers to exercise extreme caution when swimming in the Potomac and to always be aware of local conditions, tide patterns, and weather forecasts.
Safety Tips for Swimming in Natural Waters
Officials recommend the following precautions when swimming in rivers and open water:
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Never swim alone; always have a buddy
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Stay close to shore and know your limits
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Avoid areas with strong currents or unclear water
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Wear a life jacket if you’re unsure of the conditions
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Monitor tides and weather before entering the water
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Supervise children and teens closely around water
As the investigation continues, Bustillo’s family and friends are left to cope with an unimaginable loss, while the broader community reflects on the importance of water safety and awareness.
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