Additional Coverage:
- Brothers, 18 and 45, found drowned in California river described as ‘kind, determined, creative, and funny’ (themirror.com)
Two brothers were tragically found dead after witnesses reported seeing one of them struggling to swim in the Trinity River in Northern California.
Lex Rincon, 45, of Arcata, California, and his younger brother Krishna “Ganesh” Rincon, 18, who lived in New York, were discovered near Willow Creek along the river in Humboldt County, according to sheriff’s officials. Deputies responded to a call at Tagmeyer Beach shortly after 10 a.m. last Wednesday following reports that a man had been seen struggling in the water the previous day.
Upon arrival, authorities found the brothers’ vehicle parked near the riverbank. An extensive search of the river and surrounding area was conducted with assistance from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Special Services Division, ultimately leading to the recovery of both men’s bodies from the water.
Preliminary findings indicate the brothers died in a manner consistent with drowning, though investigations remain ongoing. Autopsies are scheduled to take place early this week.
In a statement, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office said, “On August 19, 2026, deputies were dispatched to Tagmeyer Beach to search for an individual observed struggling to swim in the Trinity River the day before. The presence of the individual’s vehicle raised concerns for their safety, prompting a thorough search of the river and riverbank.”
Friends and family have expressed profound sorrow over the unexpected loss. Gregory Terry, a close friend, described Lex as “unrelentingly kind, determined, creative, and funny,” and said he felt privileged to have known both brothers. Terry’s heartfelt message emphasized the deep impact their deaths have had on all who loved them.
To support the Rincon family, many of whom reside in New York and now face the challenge of traveling to Humboldt County to recover the brothers’ bodies, friends have organized an online fundraiser. The appeal highlights the financial burden of last-minute travel arrangements and calls on the community for assistance in helping the family come together during this difficult time.