Lake Lanier Claims Another Life: 27‑Year‑Old Man Dies During Birthday Boat Celebration
On Saturday, June 14, 2025, a routine birthday outing at Georgia’s Lake Lanier turned devastating when 27‑year‑old Ramon Diaz‑Soria jumped from a stationary boat into the water—and never resurfaced
Diaz‑Soria, a resident of the Atlanta area, was celebrating a friend’s birthday aboard a rented tritoon boat near the Vann’s Tavern Park cove in Forsyth County
He leaped into the lake wearing a life jacket, but tragically, the vest wasn’t correctly fastened. The malfunction caused it to float away, leaving him unsupported as he sank from view .
Witnesses quickly realized something was wrong—within seconds, they tried to rescue him, but to no avail. His friends, galvanized by panic, immediately called local authorities Tragically, Diaz‑Soria could not swim, a point later confirmed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) through reports from his family and friends
Local DNR game wardens launched a search Saturday evening, which was briefly paused due to fading light. As daylight broke on Sunday, June 15, they resumed the effort using sonar technology. That evening, at approximately 60 feet beneath the surface, his body was located and subsequently recovered Authorities confirmed the body was turned over to the coroner.
Remembering Ramon Diaz‑Soria
Ramon’s sister, Abigail “Aby” Diaz‑Soria, described her brother as “kind, generous, funny, and full of light”—a presence that positively impacted everyone he mes. She created a GoFundMe campaign in his memory, sharing:
“He wasn’t just my brother—he was my best friend, my protector, and my biggest supporter… Anyone who knew him would tell you how kind, generous, funny, and full of light he was” .
The fundraiser quickly gained traction, raising over $16,000 to aid with funeral expenses and support grieving family members. Family and friends have described Ramon as a mentor who volunteered extensively—particularly through the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Hispanic Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs group—and as a generous leader who often arranged resume‑review workshops and guidance sessions for others
Melissa Silva, a close friend, recalled Ramon as “a heart always willing to serve.” She emphasized his commitment to community work, his leadership in workshops, and his wake of voluntary efforts that defined his character
Lake Lanier’s Troubling History
Lake Lanier has gained notoriety over the years for numerous drownings. Between 1994 and 2022, the Georgia DNR recorded over 200 fatalities, with the majority linked to drowning incidents
. Even as recent as 2024, there were several drownings and boating accidents, underscoring a persistent risk in the area
Final Thoughts
Ramon Diaz‑Soria’s death is a heartrending reminder of life’s fragility—especially when basic safety measures fail, such as the improper use of a life jacket. His memory lives on through acts of kindness he inspired and the community initiatives he championed. Family, friends, and colleagues are united in grief, yet resolve to honor his vibrant legacy.
