PERRIS (CNS) - A 78-year-old swimmer who vanished Thursday in Lake Perris was presumed drowned, prompting a search involving multiple agencies.
The drowning was reported about 4:20 p.m. near the south entrance to the Lake Perris State Recreation Area, situated between Perris and Moreno Valley, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.
Firefighters reached the location within a few minutes and attempted a shore-side search of the area, with the assistance of park rangers, but the man could not be located.
Witnesses at the scene told first responders that he went underwater and never resurfaced, but the specific circumstances were not immediately known.
The sheriff's dive team was notified and was expected to initiate an underwater search in the time allowed before nightfall, according to officials at the scene.