The body of Fil-Am camper James Ashley Bawayan was found days after he was swept away by strong currents in the Kern River in the San Joaquin Valley, California. According to authorities, the body was found near the Hobo Campground and an autopsy is currently underway to determine the cause of death.
Bawayan, 36, from Chino Hills, jumped from a rock into the river on July 12 while camping with family and friends. According to his cousin, Karla Bacayan, they return to the area every year for vacation.
“He always jumps in the same place, and he usually returns to the campsite lagoon. Unfortunately, today he was swept away by the current and never returned,” Bacayan said.
Many of Bawayan's friends, family, and coworkers helped in the search and rescue operation which later turned into a recovery mission after several days passed without him being seen.
Authorities warned that the river is very dangerous during the summer months due to strong currents. According to data, an average of six to seven people have died each year in the Kern River over the past ten years.
