On Monday, May 28, 2018 at approximately 17:05 hours, California State Park Peace Officers and Lifeguards received a report that 9-year-old Alissa Montgomery was missing and last seen in the water in the power cove boating beach area of Lake Perris State Recreation Area. Power Cove is a non-swimming area and is for boaters only. On scene, a team of 10 lifeguards and 2 State Parks Peace Officer scuba divers searched the water for approximately fifty minutes and recovered the victim in approximately 10-15 feet of water. The victim was transported to Riverside University Health System Medical Center in serious condition. At the hospital, despite live saving efforts, the victim was not able to recover and was pronounced dead at 18:27 hours.
Drownings are terrible tragedies but they can be prevented. As the summer begins, we encourage everyone who cannot swim to always wear a life jacket. Regardless of swimming skill, all visitors should swim in designated swim areas next to a lifeguard. Parents should always watch their children and know where they are, especially around water. This incident is under investigation pending the Riverside County Coroner notifications.