The Death of Naya Rivera
Date: July 8, 2020 (body recovered and death legally recorded July 13, 2020)
On July 8, 2020, American actress and singer Naya Rivera was reported missing after a boating trip with her young son, Josey Hollis Dorsey, at Lake Piru in Ventura County, California. Rivera had rented a pontoon boat with her four-year-old son that afternoon, but when the vessel was overdue for return, rescuers began a search. They found Josey alone and asleep on the boat wearing a life jacket, while Rivera was nowhere to be seen.
A massive search operation ensued. On July 13, 2020, divers located Rivera’s body in Lake Piru. She was 33 years old. Ventura County medical officials ruled her death an accidental drowning; the death certificate noted she died “within minutes” after going under the water. Authorities and investigators believe Rivera used her remaining strength to ensure her son climbed back onto the boat before she was unable to save herself.
Rivera was best known for her role as Santana Lopez on the hit television series Glee, where she became a beloved figure for her powerful performances and groundbreaking representation of LGBTQ+ characters on mainstream TV. Her tragic passing sparked an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and the entertainment community worldwide.
She was laid to rest on July 24, 2020, at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hollywood Hills, following a private service attended by family and close friends.