Naya Rivera Missing in California Lake on 8th
4-Year-Old Son Says "Mom Went Swimming and Didn't Come Back"
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ga-yeon] Naya Rivera (33), an actress known for her role as Santana Lopez in the popular American drama 'Glee,' has gone missing in a lake in Southern California. Local authorities are focusing on the possibility of Rivera's death and are conducting search operations.
On the 9th (local time), according to local media including The Washington Post, the Ventura County Sheriff's Office, which is in charge of the case, stated that Rivera is presumed to have drowned in the lake.
Officer Chris Dyer explained at a press conference, "Search and rescue operations resumed after daylight," adding, "No signs of foul play or other causes besides an accident have been found."
He continued, "Rivera is presumed dead, but the search will continue," and added, "We are focusing on returning Rivera to her family so they can say their goodbyes."
Rivera went missing on the previous day (the 8th) while boating with her 4-year-old son on Lake Piru in California.
According to investigators, Rivera rented a boat and went out on the lake around 1 p.m. that day. About three hours later, another boat passing by found Rivera's boat and reported it.
At the time of discovery, Rivera's son was found sleeping alone on the boat. The child was safely rescued and is currently in a safe condition. The child reportedly told the police that "Mom was swimming but did not return to the boat."
On the same day, Eric Buschow, spokesperson for the Sheriff's Office, stated, "The child was found wearing a life jacket, and an adult life jacket was found inside the boat." Police are conducting search operations using helicopters, drones, and divers.
Sergeant Kevin Donohue said at a press conference, "We have not found any traces that Rivera reached the lakeshore. Therefore, the search is currently focused on the lake."
As this news spread, concerns among fellow actors and fans worldwide have grown. Fellow actress Demi Lovato comforted fans on Twitter, saying, "I don't post often, but sometimes what I post comes true," and encouraged everyone to post messages hoping "Naya will be found safe and healthy."
Meanwhile, Rivera, who started as a child actress, debuted in 1991 with CBS's 'The Royal Family.' She later appeared in dramas such as 'Smart Guy,' 'Glee,' 'Devious Maids,' and the movie 'The Devil's Door.'
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