A California man has died after jumping into Shasta Lake in an effort to save his dog, according to authorities. Geordan White, 60, was on the lake Friday with his shih tzu, Benji, when the dog fell into the water. White immediately entered the lake to rescue the animal.
While in the water, White experienced an "unknown emergency" and called for help. An onlooker threw him a flotation device, but White lost his grip and submerged. Bystanders were able to rescue Benji from the water.
Police divers later recovered White's body from the lake bottom. An autopsy is expected to determine the official cause of death.
White, a musician, was married for 26 years and was described by friends on social media as a devoted owner to Benji, whom he often called his "best friend ever."
The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office extended condolences to White’s family and urged the public to wear personal flotation devices when on the water.
