Fundraiser Launched For Boating Victim's Grieving Family

PERRIS, CA — A boating accident in Lake Perris led to the drowning of two Los Angeles County men this week. After a full day of searching, Riverside County Sheriff's Department divers recovered both bodies while their families stood vigil on the shore.

On Wednesday, the two men — identified by their families to reporters as Bob Mauro, 59, of Hawthorne, and Patrick Howard, 53, of Gardena — were recreating in the lake when one fell into the water. The other attempted to save him, and both drowned, according to a statement from the California State Parks Superintendant John Rowe.

Neither man wore a life jacket, and both drowned.

The search began early Thursday morning, as nearly a dozen family members waited by the lake into the afternoon, according to a report from the Press Enterprise.

Howard's mother, Jenny Windsor, told reporters at the scene: "We don't want to leave without them."

The first body was recovered at 1 p.m. and the second about three hours later.

On Friday, a fundraiser was launched on behalf of Howard's family over GoFundMe.

"A tragic accident took the life of Patrick unexpectedly, leaving the family unprepared financially," family spokesperson Danielle Swims wrote. "Patrick had a good heart and was being helpful til the very end."

"We ask that you help us get him home as well as be able to have something to celebrate his life and pay our respects. Any amount will help. I would like to thank you in advance."

The Riverside County Coroner's office has not yet confirmed the men's identities or released a report regarding the double drowning.

To support the family of Patrick Howard, visit the GoFundMe site.

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