Brendan Arrington, a 20-year-old from Enid, Oklahoma, tragically passed away at Lake Carl Blackwell on Sunday afternoon. Brendan was enjoying a day out with his family when he decided to take a kayak out on the lake. His father, Joshua Combs, recounts the harrowing events that unfolded after Brendan went missing.
Joshua shared that they initially didn’t worry much when Brendan took off in the kayak, given his strong swimming skills and intelligence. However, concerns arose when Joshua noticed Brendan struggling in the middle of the lake due to strong winds. Despite the wind’s intensity, Joshua believed Brendan could manage to return.
After about thirty minutes, Brendan’s mother started to panic when neither Brendan nor the kayak was visible. Joshua quickly went out to search for him but faced brutal winds, necessitating a rescue by the Stillwater Fire Department. They soon discovered the kayak fully submerged, but there was no sign of Brendan. The search intensified with drones, thermal scans, and dive teams deployed, yet Brendan remained missing.
The situation took a devastating turn when Brendan’s body was finally recovered around 8 PM. The exact circumstances of his death are unclear, though Joshua hopes that an injury from the kayak might have rendered Brendan unconscious before he drowned. The family has been overwhelmed by grief and the support from their community.
A GoFundMe campaign was organized by Joshua Combs to help with the search and future funeral arrangements. The fundraiser, which has garnered $575 of its $1,000 goal, highlights the family’s immediate needs for food and gas money while they stayed by the lake during the search. Joshua expressed profound gratitude for the prayers and support received from friends, family, and even strangers.
Friends and community members have expressed their condolences on Facebook. Gabby Peterman shared fond memories from high school, while Brandy Panther and DeeDee Holcombe sent prayers for Brendan’s family. Hannah Perkins, who used to babysit Brendan, expressed her heartbreak over the loss.
Kilee Thomas of KOCO News reported on Brendan’s disappearance and the subsequent recovery of his body. Kilee also shared the GoFundMe link provided by Brendan’s father for those who wish to support the family.
The tragedy at Lake Carl Blackwell has left a profound impact on Brendan’s family and friends, who are now rallying together to support each other through this difficult time.
Note:This post was written and edited by Asher Wright, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.