Pueblo, Colo. — The Pueblo community is heartbroken following the tragic death of David Sanchez, 18, a beloved former Central High School wrestling star, who drowned at Lake Pueblo on August 12, 2025. Authorities have confirmed that Sanchez, remembered for his athletic excellence and his uplifting spirit, was the victim of an apparent drowning near the lake’s east end dam.
A 2025 graduate of Central High School, Sanchez built an impressive wrestling career, finishing with 125 wins, three state tournament qualifications, and two state runner-up titles. His dedication, discipline, and love for the sport earned him admiration not only from his teammates and coaches but from the wider wrestling community. He was preparing to begin the next chapter of his journey at Otero College in La Junta, where he planned to continue both his education and his wrestling career.
According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), rangers were alerted just before noon to a possible drowning. Witnesses reported seeing a man—later identified as Sanchez—without a life jacket, go under in approximately 23 feet of water, about 65 yards from shore. A CPW boat crew, working alongside a Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office diver, quickly located him. CPR was administered while he was rushed to shore, but despite every effort, medics pronounced him dead shortly before 1 p.m. If confirmed, Sanchez’s passing marks the fifth drowning at Lake Pueblo in 2025.
The loss has deeply shaken those who knew him. The Pueblo Central Wrestling team honored Sanchez in a heartfelt Facebook tribute, reflecting on his exceptional talent, leadership, and the example he set for younger athletes. Friends and teammates describe him as someone who carried himself with humility, determination, and kindness—qualities that made him not only a champion on the mat but a role model in life.
David’s passing leaves a void that will be felt across the Pueblo community and beyond. As family, friends, teammates, coaches, and supporters grieve, they remember a young man who had so much ahead of him—a future built on hard work, dedication, and an undeniable love for those around him.
Funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days. In this time of sorrow, the community joins together in offering thoughts, prayers, and unwavering support to the Sanchez family, honoring David’s memory and the lasting impact he made in just 18 short years.
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