Just halfway through 2022, the number of drownings in Louisiana waterways is already on track to surpass last year's count.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries said there were 26 boating fatalities last year. So far this year, they're at 19.
"About a week ago we had a Hispanic male that drowned in the Diversion Canal about two miles from this location here," Sgt. Randy Lanoux said.
Lanoux says, in his region, he has seen 7 drownings. The most recent deaths happened this week.
"The prevailing conditions, just like in this incident this weekend, change dramatically within a matter of minutes. You have to be prepared for that. If you don't have the ability to overcome that, like waves, that is when these tragedies occur," Lanoux said.
Zane Bryant, 20, went to help his friend, Zachary Leduff, 18, when he got into trouble swimming in Lake Maurepas on Sunday.