White Sands Lake Day Beach is located off Highway 1073 near Enon.

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Alexander Moraski

THE DAILY NEWS 

 

The Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office has identified the teen who drowned at White Sands Lake Day Beach on July 4 as 16-year-old Dyquell Deandre Gross.

Deputies and emergency medical personnel responded to a 911 call around 11:57 a.m. regarding a possible drowning at the recreational beach off Highway 1073 near Enon. Upon arrival, first responders found Gross unresponsive in the water. Bystanders initiated CPR, and Gross was transported to Riverside Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

White Sands Lake Day Beach is a privately operated facility that allows swimming and includes water inflatables. The lake was formed from a former gravel pit and contains areas of varying depth, with some zones reportedly reaching up to 18 feet.

According to posted rules, the facility does not employ lifeguards, and swimming is at the individual’s own risk. Staff are trained in CPR, but there is no requirement for in-water rescue efforts. Witnesses said Gross was within the designated swimming area marked by buoys when he went under.

During the emergency response, the ambulance attempting to reach Gross reportedly became stuck in sand after being directed off the main road by park staff. No delays in medical treatment have been officially confirmed.

An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of death. No signs of foul play have been reported, and the investigation remains open.

The beach remained open following the incident. No updates have been issued regarding changes to safety protocols or staffing.

Gross was a student in Washington Parish and was visiting the park with others at the time of the incident. Funeral arrangements have not been announced.