Key Takeaways
- A 3-year-old girl from Modesto drowned at Fleming Meadows Lagoon in Lake Don Pedro on July 18, 2026.
- Bystanders initiated CPR before deputies and medics arrived, but the child was pronounced dead at the scene.
- The Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office is investigating and urges water safety, including life jackets for children.
- Authorities are seeking witnesses and any photos or videos that may show the child on a raft or boat with other children.
Introduction
A tragic drowning at Lake Don Pedro, also known as Don Pedro Reservoir, has claimed the life of a 3-year-old girl from Modesto on July 18, 2026. The incident occurred Saturday afternoon at Fleming Meadows Lagoon, prompting a swift response from bystanders and authorities.
What Happened at Fleming Meadows Lagoon
Around 3:34 p.m. on July 18, 2026, the Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call reporting that a three-year-old child was missing and may have drowned in the Fleming Meadows Lagoon at Lake Don Pedro. While deputies were responding, additional 911 callers advised that the child, a 3-year-old girl from Modesto, had been located and that CPR was in progress. Members of the TCSO Boat Patrol who were already on Lake Don Pedro conducting routine patrol operations immediately responded to the location. Upon arrival, deputies relieved members of the public who were performing CPR and continued lifesaving efforts until fire personnel and medics arrived and assumed patient care. Despite the quick response and efforts of bystanders, deputies, firefighters, and medics, the child could not be revived. She was pronounced deceased before she could be transported by air to a higher level of medical care.
Local California Context
The girl was a resident of Modesto, a city in Stanislaus County about 30 miles south of Lake Don Pedro. The lake is a popular recreation spot in Tuolumne County, drawing visitors from the Central Valley. The reservoir, also known as Don Pedro Reservoir, created in 1971, holds 2 million acre-feet of water and is close to Yosemite National Park. The lagoon at Fleming Meadows Recreation Area is a 2-acre swimming area with a sand bottom, near a picnic area.
Background
Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death among young children in California. In 2023, the state reported dozens of child drownings in lakes, rivers, and pools. Proper life jacket use is often cited as a key preventive measure. The little girl was not wearing a life jacket.
Investigation and Appeal for Information
The Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office is seeking assistance from the public in gathering further information on this incident. Investigators are looking for any photos or videos that may show the child on a raft or boat with other children, as well as witnesses who may have seen the child before she was pulled out of the water. A photo of the raft believed to be involved has been released by authorities. The sheriff's office is specifically requesting any photos and videos that visitors may have taken before, during, and after the tragic incident. Anyone with those items or further information regarding this case, numbered 26001917, is asked to contact Detective Bomer at (209) 694-2904.
Victim Identified and Community Response
The girl has been identified as Lailah Rosillo, according to a GoFundMe campaign started to support her family. The fundraiser, organized by family friend Yolanda Muro, has a goal of raising $12,000 and had raised close to $9,400 as of Thursday, July 23. Muro described Rosillo as “a bright, beautiful little girl whose smile brought happiness to everyone around her.” She added, “What was meant to be a joyful family camping trip became an unimaginable nightmare that no parent, sibling or grandparent should ever have to endure.” Muro also said, “She was deeply loved by her family and leaves behind an older brother, an older sister, and a baby brother, all of whom miss her beyond words.” The funds will go toward funeral and memorial expenses. Rosillo leaves behind an older brother, an older sister, and a baby brother, all of whom miss her beyond words.
Conclusion
The Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office continues its investigation and asks anyone with information to contact Detective Bomer at (209) 694-2904. Officials remind the public to prioritize water safety, especially for young children, by using U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets near water.