Home Washington, D.C., man dead after drowning in the Shenandoah River on Sunday
Local

Washington, D.C., man dead after drowning in the Shenandoah River on Sunday

Crystal Graham
shenandoah river
(© Editwithfelix/Wirestock Creators – stock.adobe.com)

A 37-year-old man visiting Page County over the long Fourth of July weekend has died after drowning in the Shenandoah River near Compton Rapids.

Melvin Sorto from Washington, D.C., died at the scene on Sunday just after 4 p.m.

There were no signs of foul play. Alcohol is believed to be a factor, according to the Page County Sheriff’s Department.

Page County deputies, along with Luray and Shenandoah fire departments, Luray Rescue and Page County EMS responded to the 911 call.

The victim was pulled from the water by bystanders who attempted to perform life-saving measures.

The body was sent to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Manassas for an autopsy.

 

Featured Video

 




Crystal Graham

Crystal Graham

A 1999 graduate of Virginia Tech, Crystal Graham has worked for 25 years as a reporter and editor for several Virginia publications, written a book, and garnered more than a dozen Virginia Press Association awards for writing and graphic design. She was the co-host of "Viewpoints," a weekly TV news show, and co-host of "Virginia Tonight," a nightly TV news show, both broadcast on PBS. Her work on "Virginia Tonight" earned her a national Telly award for excellence in television. You can reach her at [email protected]. Support AFP by signing up for our newsletter and/or powering our work with a one-time or monthly contribution.

Latest News

beth macy ben cline
Region

Beth Macy talks smack on Ben Cline for ghosting Oct. 14 debate invite

israel gaza
Trump's America

Beyer helping lead effort to stop Israeli settlements in West Bank, Gaza

Don Beyer has joined a group of six U.S. House Democrats who are introducing legislation that would impose economic sanctions on individuals and entities building or expanding settlements in the West Bank and Gaza.

northern virginia
Virginia

Virginia organizations set to get $4.1 million for veteran suicide prevention efforts

A press release from the offices of U.S. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine announced that Virginia is set to get $4.1 million for veteran suicide prevention efforts.

notre dame
Football, Go 'Hoos

UVA Football: Home game with Notre Dame completes 2027 schedule

uva football fans
Football, Go 'Hoos

Looking back at that ‘one of the best’ field storm: Don’t forget the 19 injured

John Szefc Virginia Tech
Baseball

Virginia Tech agrees to extension through 2030 with baseball coach John Szefc

uva nov 13 graphic
Football, Go 'Hoos

Doc on UVA Football murders set for world premiere at Virginia Film Festival