Over 50 people and 6 dogs were rescued from Ohio’s treacherous Cuyahoga River just one day after a father heroically vanished while trying to save his family from the same raging waters that claimed his 5-year-old son’s life.
At a Glance
- Kent Fire Department rescued over 50 people and 6 dogs from the Cuyahoga River after rough currents capsized kayaks and rafts
- The rescue came just after a tragic incident where 5-year-old Braxton Cross drowned and his father Patrick went missing while tubing
- Many rescued individuals were not wearing lifejackets despite warnings about dangerous water conditions
- The father heroically saved his wife and younger child before disappearing while trying to save his 5-year-old son
- Authorities have transitioned from rescue to recovery efforts for the missing father
Mass Rescue Operation Follows Tragic Deaths
The Kent Fire Department in Ohio found themselves overwhelmed this weekend when they had to rescue dozens of recreationists who ignored warnings about the dangerous conditions of the Cuyahoga River. The mass rescue operation came less than 24 hours after a father and his 5-year-old son disappeared when their inner tube capsized in the same treacherous waters. Despite clear warnings about elevated water levels and dangerous rapids due to recent severe weather, countless individuals still chose to risk their lives for a day of summer fun.
“When first responders arrived, a staggering 23 people and six dogs, many without lifejackets, needed help in the dangerous waters, the department wrote on Facebook.”
The rescue effort quickly expanded as more and more people were found in distress along different parts of the river. What began as 23 people needing assistance ballooned to over 50 individuals, including numerous children and pets. The operation required the response of four neighboring fire departments and a specialized water rescue team. Even with lifejackets, the river’s current proved too powerful for many kayakers and rafters who found themselves helplessly swept away in the unforgiving waters.
The father and his 5-year-old son were on an inflatable inner tube that overturned in the Cuyahoga River rapids on Saturday. https://t.co/MfiQgBAZMA
— Cleveland 19 News (@cleveland19news) June 25, 2025
A Father’s Ultimate Sacrifice
The mass rescue operation was made even more poignant by the tragedy that had occurred just the day before. Patrick Cross, his wife, and their two young sons were enjoying a day of tubing on the Cuyahoga River near the Portage Trail Bridge in Cuyahoga Falls when disaster struck. Their inflatable inner tube capsized in the rushing waters, throwing the entire family into the river. In a final act of heroism, Patrick managed to save his wife and 3-year-old son, helping them reach the shore safely.
“That river is a living, breathing animal.”
Tragically, as Patrick attempted to save his 5-year-old son Braxton, both were swept away by the current. Multiple 911 calls reported the overturned inner tube, triggering an immediate response from the Cuyahoga Falls Fire Department. Despite their best efforts, rescuers found Braxton’s body later that evening. The search for Patrick Cross has since transitioned from a rescue mission to a recovery operation, with authorities waiting for water levels to recede to continue their search efforts.
Warnings Ignored, Consequences Severe
The back-to-back incidents have left many questioning why individuals continue to ignore safety warnings and risk their lives in clearly dangerous conditions. The Kent Fire Department had explicitly warned about the elevated water levels and rough rapids due to recent severe weather, even posting signs urging residents to stay away from the river. Yet dozens of people, many without proper safety equipment, still ventured into the water, requiring an extensive rescue operation that put first responders at risk as well.
“We ask that you stay on dry land and simply observe the beauty of the river during these rough conditions rather than risk danger to yourself and others.”
The search for Patrick Cross continues, with more than 50 personnel, boats, drones, and search canines involved in the operation. As water levels slowly recede, search teams are gaining access to previously inaccessible areas, hoping to provide closure for the grieving family. Cuyahoga Falls Mayor Don Walters expressed his condolences and affirmed the city’s commitment to the search efforts, acknowledging the profound impact this tragedy has had on the community.
“Our heart hurts for the family, we’re here to support them, we’ve been doing everything we can to comfort them and provide closure.”
