Danny Sumner and his 6-year-old son, Donovan, went on a father-son fishing excursion in Virginia on March 22, 2025. The pair hoped to catch a few fish and make some memories, but instead, a tragedy rocked the family. Sadly, both Danny Sumner and Donovan drowned that day, and a short cellphone video discovered by police shed a bit of light on what happened.
According to the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office, Danny Sumner’s wife, Madeline Sumner, became concerned when her family wasn’t home by 9:45 p.m. She contacted the sheriff’s office for help, and deputies went to the boat landing off Legacy Lane, where the pair went to fish.
“Deputies found Danny’s vehicle and his cellphone was found on the river dock. The Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office Dive Team was contacted and immediately responded. Shortly after the divers entered the river, both victims were found,” a statement reads.
Major Elizabeth Scott of the sheriff’s office told People what investigators gathered from the scene. “He was celebrating, Mr. Sumner was videoing this on his cellphone,” she said. “When the child stepped back and fell into the river, the cellphone was seen. It dropped to the dock and ultimately Mr. Sumner went in after his son and, unfortunately, both drowned.”
The case remains under investigation, but police do not expect foul play.
Loved ones created a GoFundMe account for Madeline Sumner and the couple’s 2-year-old son, Danilo.
A post on the fundraiser reads in part, “Danny was a loving son, brother, husband, father, friend, teammate, and educator to those who knew him. Danny was known in his community for being the guy to help without being asked. A devout Christian, he exemplified how to live a Godly lifestyle no matter the setting. Don was a kind and gentle spirit who loved playing with his baby brother Danilo, neighborhood friends, and just recently accomplished riding his bike without training wheels.”
The GoFundMe has brought in nearly $60,000 of a $300,000 goal thus far.
Madeline Sumner took to Facebook to thank those who have shared kindness and prayers with her during an unbelievably difficult time.
“My husband and son left in the most honorable way, trying to save each other. My husband gave no thought about saving my son and gave his ALL until the Lord called them both home,” she wrote in her post. “God, I don’t know why you left us this cross to bear and with that, I will do my best to carry this knowing that they loved us so much.”
A friend shared a loving compliment on the post, writing, “Thank you for exemplifying faith and strength amidst such a tragedy.”
