Man Who Drowned in Broussard Retention Pond Identified by Authorities

The Broussard Police Department has identified the man who tragically drowned in a retention pond on Wednesday as Manuel Gonzalez, 36.

Authorities reported that officers were dispatched to the 100 block of Lake Edge Drive at approximately 12:30 p.m. after receiving a call about a drowning incident. According to the police, Gonzalez and two other men who were working in the area decided to swim in the retention pond.

Witnesses at the scene stated that Gonzalez began to struggle while swimming and eventually went under the water, never resurfacing. The Lafayette Sheriff's Office Dive Team was promptly called to assist in the recovery efforts. Sadly, their efforts culminated in the recovery of Gonzalez's body.

The Lafayette Coroner’s Office was on the scene to remove the body and is expected to conduct further investigations to determine the exact cause of death.

The Broussard Police Department is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.