Fundraiser Set Up For Teen Who Jumped Into Lake To Save Friend

GRAYSLAKE, IL -- The mother of the Grayslake North student, who jumped into Lake Michigan to save a friend, has set up an online fundraiser to create a scholarship in her son’s memory. Her son’s selfless act has “been an inspiration to so many,” Susan Medina wrote on the GoFundMe page. She identified her son as Matthew “Mateo” Garcia.

“I want his memory to live on by creating a scholarship that will help others achieve their potential,” Medina wrote on the GoFundMe page, which has brought in over $9,200 in just three days.

The 16-year-old boy jumped into Lake Michigan in Waukegan on Jan. 18 to try to save a friend after that friend fell into the water. He had been walking with two other teens at the time of the incident near the Stiner Music Pavilion at about 4:30 p.m.

Garcia’s friend was taken to a local hospital.

A memorial service for Garcia was held on Feb. 1.

“His selfless sacrifice and heroism will not be forgotten,” according to his obituary.

More via Garcia’s obituary and GoFundMe