A United States Navy veteran took his family fishing in South Carolina on March 8, 2025, but sadly, it was their last outing together. Andre Hancock, known lovingly as Lonnie, learned a 13-year-old boy had fallen into water by Wateree Dam and jumped in after him to try to save his life. Several others jumped into the water to help, including 21-year-old Valentin Quiroz. Tragically, the fast-moving current swept both men away and they quickly lost their lives in the water. The 13-year-old miraculously survived.
Kershaw County Sheriff Lee Boan shared the story during a news conference on March 10, calling the men “heroes.” Boan said Quiroz knew the family of the boy who fell into the water, but Hancock did not. He saw a need as a stranger and went into the water to help.
According to WLTX, the sheriff said the men jumped into action. “These men didn’t hesitate. They saw someone in trouble, and they jumped in. That’s what heroes do.”
Gary Mallot told WISTV he heard the commotion but didn’t know what happened. “At first, we thought it was just kids playing in the water, and then we heard a lady scream, and then we knew something was going on, and it was bad,” Mallot said.
Boan said several people called 911, and crews arrived to try to find Hancock and Quiroz, but the current had washed them away. They ultimately called off the search at nightfall and found their bodies the next day.
Stacy Noll created a GoFundMe account for Hancock’s widow, Jessica Yarber, and the couple’s four children. Noll told People that Hancock was a humble man who had never asked to be recognized for his deed.
“He was simply the kind of person who would do anything for anyone,” Noll said. “Our bond, like most service members that serve together, we become family,” she added. “His loss is deeply felt, and his legacy of kindness, courage, and selflessness will never be forgotten.”
Noll told Hancock’s story on the GoFundMe page, writing, “As some of you may have heard Andre (Lonnie) Hancock lost his life (3/8) on his 43rd Birthday saving a 13 year old boy from drowning. The boy was playing on rocks near fast moving water at the wateree dam in SouthCarolina. His older brother jumped in to save him but the current pulled him under immediately.
“Andre Hancock did not hesitate to jump in to help.,” she continued. “He was able to save the 13 year old boy but he did lose his life in the process. The boy’s older brother also did not make it.”
“Praying for my family,” one donor wrote. “Andre has always been a brave young man. You will be truly missed.”
The fundraiser has brought in just over $14,000 of a $25,000 goal thus far.
