Teen Drowns in Manzanares River, Cumaná | Venezuela News

A 16-year-old boy died Tuesday after becoming submerged while swimming in the Manzanares River in Cumaná, Venezuela. The incident occurred near the Puente Gómez Rubio bridge, a popular spot along the river.

The young man, identified as Carlos Palencia Salamanca, was last seen entering the river’s current, according to witnesses. Bystanders immediately began a search and alerted authorities. Despite their efforts, Palencia’s body was recovered hours later near the location where he was last observed.

Emergency response teams from the Sucre State Civil Protection and the Sucre State Police participated in the rescue and recovery operation. The remains of Carlos Palencia Salamanca were transferred to the morgue at the Antonio Patricio de Alcalá University Hospital (HUAPA) for forensic examination and to fulfill legal requirements, authorities stated.

Local authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the death. The Manzanares River, approximately 80 kilometers in length, originates in the Turimiquire mountain range and flows into the Gulf of Cariaco. Despite being a regional landmark, authorities routinely caution against swimming or traversing the river due to its variable currents.

The tragedy occurred on Sunday, March 22, 2026, according to reports. Palencia Salamanca resided in the Mundo Nuevo neighborhood of Cumaná.