Overview

• Off-duty firefighter Juan Omar Chaidez went missing on June 21 when his kayak overturned on Lake Lavon
• Search teams from multiple agencies battled high winds and submerged trees before recovering Chaidez’s body near Bratonia Park on June 23
• Chaidez had served as a firefighter paramedic with Dallas Fire-Rescue for more than six years and was kayaking with his dog, which was rescued unharmed
• Investigators confirmed Chaidez was not wearing a life jacket when his kayak flipped
• A procession to honor Chaidez was held on June 24 and Bratonia Park remains closed as authorities continue their investigation