A tragic tubing accident on the Cuyahoga River has claimed the life of a 5-year-old boy while search crews continue looking for his missing father. The incident occurred Saturday evening near the Sheraton Suites hotel when the family’s inner tube overturned in rough water.
Patrick Cross, 27, and his son Braxton Cross were swept away by the current after their tube capsized. Cross managed to save his wife and 4-year-old son before he and Braxton disappeared beneath the water. Braxton’s body was recovered Sunday morning and taken to the Summit County Medical Examiner’s office.
The family had been enjoying a tubing trip on three connected tubes when conditions suddenly deteriorated near a bridge. What started as a calm float turned dangerous as the water became turbulent, flipping their tubes and separating the family.
Search operations resumed Monday morning with a massive response including 50 personnel, five boats, drones and search dogs. Water levels have dropped significantly from eight feet to just over four feet, improving conditions for recovery teams. Crews have expanded their search area for miles along the river.
Multiple fire departments, water rescue teams and state agencies are participating in the effort. Officials have shifted from rescue to recovery operations as the search enters its third day.
Mayor Don Walters expressed the community’s grief during a Monday press conference, saying officials are focused on providing closure for the grieving family.
The river remains off-limits to the public between Broad Boulevard and Gorge Metro Park due to hazardous conditions. Authorities stress the importance of water safety as high river levels continue creating dangerous situations throughout the area.
The city plans to provide additional updates as new information becomes available. Follow them on Facebook.
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