Sheriff's Office Investigating Death Of Man Found Near Helena

SHELBY COUNTY, AL - The Shelby County Sheriff's Office is investigating the death of a Maylene man whose body was found in a lake off County Road 13 near Helena. Investigators say the man likely drowned.

On Sunday July 1, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Shelby County Sheriff's deputies were dispatched to a call of a possible drowning on the private lake located near County Road 13. When deputies arrived they discovered the body of a deceased male next to the private lake. The victim was identified as, 50 year-old Ronald Cote of Maylene.

Sheriff’s Office investigators are continuing their investigation into this death, however, at this time it does not appear that foul play was involved.

A report by ABC 33/40 said authorities believe the man had a heart attack as he was pushing his boat into the water, ultimately leading to his drowning. His girlfriend told one deputy he complained of chest pains before he fell into the water.

Photo by Renee Schiavone/Patch