Tragedy struck on Lake Norman Thursday afternoon as the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the recovery of the body of a 16-year-old boy who drowned near Catalina Drive.
At approximately 3:20 PM, deputies responded to a call reporting that a swimmer had gone under the water and did not resurface. The teen was identified as Kaleb Lamar Shields, a local youth whose sudden disappearance prompted an urgent and extensive search effort.
The Sheriff’s Office Lake Patrol Unit quickly mobilized, deploying sonar technology and a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to assist in locating the teen. They were joined in the operation by personnel from local fire departments and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
After several hours of searching, the ROV located Kaleb’s body underwater at approximately 6:43 PM. He was then recovered and brought to shore.
Sheriff Darren Campbell issued a statement expressing sympathy:
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the young individual whose life was lost today. This is a devastating loss for our community.”
The incident remains under active investigation as authorities work to determine the full circumstances leading to the drowning.
Community members have begun to rally around the family, offering prayers and support during this heartbreaking time.
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