A family outing at Lake Hopatcong turned tragic when 41-year-old Kaushik Sharma, a resident of Edison, drowned while paddleboarding, leaving his wife and two young children behind.
Sharma passed away on Sunday, August 16, at Hopatcong State Park in Roxbury Township, as per the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
Kaushik Sharma death probe
According to authorities, the incident was reported around 2:30 p.m. after bystanders observed a paddleboard that was unattended and alerted a lifeguard stationed nearby. The lifeguard subsequently informed first responders about a potential drowning.
Investigators suspect that Sharma had been paddleboarding in an area lacking lifeguard supervision. A coordinated search involving multiple agencies was initiated, and at approximately 7 p.m., Sharma was discovered dead in the water by the New Jersey State Police Technical Emergency and Mission Specialists unit.
The Morris County Medical Examiner's Office was anticipated to perform an examination. The incident is still being investigated by the New Jersey State Park Police and the New Jersey State Police. Officials have stated that foul play is not suspected.
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Kaushik Sharma dies: GoFundMe launched for family
{{/usCountry}}Also Read: Indian family in US sells Fremont residence, ready to shift back to Gujarat after 15 years
Kaushik Sharma dies: GoFundMe launched for family
{{/usCountry}}A GoFundMe campaign initiated by Rakesh Ahirwar said that Sharma passed away while partaking in a family picnic and portrayed him as a kind, generous, and compassionate man who was always reliable in assisting others.
“His sudden passing has left his wife, two young children, friends, and neighbors grieving an unimaginable loss,” the fundraiser said.
The fundraiser further mentioned that Sharma was recognized within the Edison, BAPS, Edison School PTO Board, and Gujarati communities, which have united to assist his family in the wake of his passing.
Additionally, it highlighted that Sharma’s family is residing in the United States on dependent visas, presenting another practical challenge as they navigate through this difficult time. The fundraiser does not clarify the specific visa category or offer more information regarding the family’s immigration situation.
The funds collected are aimed at helping to cover funeral costs and the family’s living expenses in the forthcoming days.