Texas Teen Swept Away by Currents Found Deceased

The body of 16-year-old Noah Dominguez was recovered Sunday afternoon, two days after he was swept away by strong currents while swimming with his girlfriend at Surfside Beach, Texas. The Surfside Beach Police Department received a report of a swimmer in distress around 1:30 p.m. on Friday near Blue Water Highway.

Authorities quickly determined that the rough waters made a rescue impossible, shifting the mission to a recovery effort. Texas Equusearch confirmed the recovery of a body believed to be Dominguez around 2 p.m. on Sunday.

"This is a devastating and tragic loss. Our hearts are heavy as we extend our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to Noah's family, friends and everyone who loved him," the non-profit said in a statement.

Family members described Noah as a victim of prolonged abuse and neglect. His cousin, Haley Waguespack, wrote on Facebook that Noah's life was "tragically robbed from him" and alleged he endured "abuse, neglect and torment" throughout his childhood with little assistance from the justice system or child protective services. Noah's mother, Tracee Marlow, is currently incarcerated.

Waguespack stated, "My family and I did everything we could to help Noah be a kid for once after enduring so much abuse and neglect his whole childhood." She added, "Noah could be alive today if he was given proper guidance from the one person he expected it from the most. Condolences to my family, we did everything we could to save my poor baby cousin from this horrendous situation. I am furious and I will fight for Noah’s justice until it is served."

Another family member, Leyah Enouchs, called Noah "such a young, sweet boy who deserved to be loved, protected, and given the opportunity to grow up and experience life." She expressed sorrow for the potential he will not realize, stating, "It hurts knowing that he had so much life ahead of him and so many years he deserved to live."

Joanne Dominguez, another relative, shared her grief, noting her plans to see Noah graduate and his desire to visit her. "Oh my God now he's with him in heaven...I love you so much," she wrote.

The Daily Mail reached out to the Surfside Police Department for comment.