Police: Father dies trying to save kids at Candlewood Lake

NEW MILFORD — A father died after trying to save two children from the waters at a beach on Candlewood Lake late Monday afternoon, officials said.

Police responded to the Candlewood Shore community beach in New Milford for a report of a 6-year-old boy and a 10-year-old girl having difficulty swimming around 5 p.m. Monday, Lt. Lee Grabner said.

The father of the 6-yearold — identified by Grabner as 26-year-old Norwalk resident Victor Garcia — tried to help the children, aided by other family members.

Grabner said the children were brought safely to shore while another family member pulled Garcia from the water. Officers performed CPR until medics arrived.

Garcia was rushed to New Milford Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

The children were taken to Danbury Hospital, where they were treated and later released.

Grabner said the family was visiting the area from Norwalk.