One man died and another was hospitalized Sunday after they were pulled from the Kings River near Winton Park, according to the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies received a report around 4 p.m. of two men struggling to stay above water. Neither was wearing a life jacket, officials said.

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Emergency crews, including Cal Fire Fresno County firefighters and the Sheriff’s EAGLE One helicopter team, responded to the area. Deputies aboard the helicopter spotted one man on an island downstream and another nearby, submerged in the water.

The pilot landed on the island and the crew pulled the submerged man from the water and flew him to EMS personnel staged nearby. He was taken to a hospital where he was declared dead. The man found on the island was treated and is expected to recover.

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Authorities warn the public to stay out of local rivers due to dangerous conditions. Despite spring-like temperatures, the river water remains in the low 50s, and strong currents caused by dam releases make the water hazardous.

Authorities emphasized the importance of water safety, including always wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket, staying out of rivers unless you are a strong swimmer, and never mixing alcohol with swimming. They also warned of hidden debris, sudden drop-offs, and hypothermia risks.

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