FREEPORT, Texas – Two people drowned Monday and another person was injured during an incident near San Luis Pass, according to deputies.
The incident was reported in the waters near Treasure Island neighborhood near the Bluewater Highway Bridge, about a quarter-mile south of the pass.
According to Brazoria County deputies, Larry Lumpkin, 67, of Willis, was vacationing with his family at a rental home in the area. They said Lumpkin ventured into the water and began to struggle. They said his son-in-law, Dennis Roberson, 46, of Montgomery, jumped in and tried to save him. They said both men were pulled underwater by strong currents.
Lumpkin was pronounced dead at the scene. Roberson was flown to John Sealy Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Deputies said Armando Espinoza, 54, of Houston, tried to help the men and was also overcome by the water. They said rescuers were able to save him. They said he was flown to John Sealy Hospital and was listed in stable condition.
Investigators said on a day like this no one should be in this water.
“The National Weather Service issued a rip current statement early this afternoon,” Lt. Varon Snelgrove said. “People need to be mindful of those. Check the weather. When they see those warning don’t get in the water. It may look calm from the beach itself may not thing you’re going to get in that much trouble out there knee deep or waist deep. But the rip current is extremely bad.”
