On the evening of July 12, 2025, 31-year-old Daniel Braga Figueiredo made a heroic attempt to save a young family member from danger — a selfless act that ended in heartbreak.
The incident unfolded at Silver Lake Flat Reservoir in Utah’s scenic American Fork Canyon. Daniel borrowed a paddleboard and paddled out to rescue his 12-year-old relative, who had been caught drifting away on an inflatable tube by strong currents. Witnesses say Daniel managed to get the girl safely onto a flotation device, but tragically, he disappeared beneath the water shortly afterward.
Despite the swift arrival of emergency services and hours of search efforts by first responders and volunteers, Daniel’s body was recovered around 9:30 p.m. Sergeant Ormond of the Utah County Sheriff’s Office expressed deep condolences and praised the dedication of all involved in the rescue operation.
During the search, officials closed access roads to the reservoir and urged the public to stay clear to allow rescue teams to work safely.
About Silver Lake Flat Reservoir
Set against the rugged beauty of the Lone Peak Wilderness, Silver Lake Flat Reservoir has long been a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Built in 1971 and significantly upgraded in 2015 for seismic safety, the reservoir features a reinforced dam capable of withstanding a 7.5 magnitude earthquake — while offering expanded recreational opportunities to the public.
A joyful family day on the water turned tragic near Bayou Sara in Saraland, Alabama, on June 15, 2025, when 27-year-old Brittney Sherman lost her life in a devastating boat collision.
The Collision
At approximately 5:50 p.m., two boats collided several miles south of the Bayou Sara Boat Launch. Brittney was a passenger aboard a boat piloted by a 19-year-old man from Lucedale. With her were her husband, Cody Sherman, and their four-year-old son. The second boat was driven by a 52-year-old man from Wilmer. Fortunately, neither boat operator sustained injuries.
Authorities from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) are actively investigating the cause of the crash.
Search and Recovery Efforts
When Brittney was reported missing, a large-scale search effort was immediately launched. Teams from Mobile Police Marine Unit, Mobile Fire-Rescue, Saraland Fire-Rescue, Daphne Search and Rescue, Mobile County Sheriff’s Flotilla, and Chickasaw Fire-Rescue combed the waters through the night.
By the morning of June 16, ALEA took over the investigation. Around 11 a.m., rescuers located Brittney’s body approximately 100 yards from where she went overboard.
Family’s Heartfelt Grief and Community Support
Brittney’s family confirmed her identity and expressed profound sorrow. Her husband Cody took to social media to share emotional tributes and assure their community he would care for their children.
In a poignant message, he wrote, “Brittney, I love you more than anything. I promise to take care of these babies for you.” He also asked for prayers for their son, calling him “the toughest person I ever met.”
A Stark Reminder
As ALEA continues its investigation, Brittney’s family and friends honor her memory while grappling with the sudden loss. This tragic accident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly a peaceful day on the water can change in an instant.