Detectives from the Montgomery County Police Major Crimes Division – Homicide and Sex Section are investigating a drowning that occurred on Monday at Purple Horse Beach, which is part of the Billy Goat Trail.

On Monday, June 24, at approximately 1:51 p.m., Montgomery County Fire & Rescue received a call for a possible drowning of a 19-year-old male at Purple Horse Beach.  Montgomery County Fire & Rescue began a rescue mission.  Montgomery County Police search and rescue officers responded to the beach to provide assistance on land.

Today, following an extended joint operation, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue recovered the victim's body in the water at approximately 9:15 a.m.   Montgomery County Police search and rescue officers were on scene during these recovery efforts.  The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Montgomery County Police detectives are leading the investigation into the male's death.  Investigation has revealed that the victim was swimming with friends when his friends noticed him go under the water and not resurface.  A witness contacted 911.

The victim has been identified as Ngo Tekwe Forchick of Takoma Park, Maryland.

RLI