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Man drowns at Lopez Lake in San Luis Obispo County

July 1, 2026

By KAREN VELIE

A 20-year-old man died while swimming in Lopez Lake on Tuesday afternoon.

Shortly after 4 p.m., a caller reported a swimmer in distress. A 20-year-old man had been swimming with friends when he appeared to struggle and went underwater.

His friends flagged down a nearby boat. The people onboard located the swimmer and pulled him from the water.

Despite lifesaving measures, Nathan Martinez of Santa Maria was later pronounced deceased at Arroyo Grande Community Hospital.

“The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office extends its sincere condolences to Mr. Martinez’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,” according to a press release.

 


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3 Comments

I thought one was not to swim in that Lake? Thought I read that! Couple of months ago!?


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When there was adequate depth, prior to allowing far too much silt and storm debris to remain, there were a few designated swimming and family wading areas along the shore. Even the former Boy Scout camp, had a nice waterfront for canoeing, rowing, sailing, and swimming (and we used to jump off the cliffs into 20′ of water).


1

Swimming is allowed in Lopez Lake. The Salinas Reservoir (Santa Margarita Lake) prohibits swimming.


3