Braydon Bretzer dies in fatal Puerto Escondido, Mexico drowning

Braydon Bretzer dies in fatal Puerto Escondido, Mexico drowning

Fatal Puerto Escondido drowning death of Braydon Bretzer – Obituary

Braydon Bretzer, a 31-year-old man from Saskatoon, Canada, was found dead after being swept away by strong currents in the waters off Zicatela Beach in Puerto Escondido, a popular destination on Mexico’s southern Pacific coastline. He had been visiting the area with American friend Chris Ankele, 40, who remains missing following the incident.

Authorities stated that the two men were last seen swimming in a section of the ocean considered dangerous due to its powerful tides. Witnesses reported that both were pulled out to sea by a riptide on Sunday, leading to an immediate search and rescue operation by local lifeguards and civil protection teams.

On Monday, rescuers spotted Bretzer’s body floating in the surf and retrieved it. Officials believe he drowned. As of Thursday, no trace of Ankele had been found, and the search is ongoing, according to a statement released by the San Pedro Mixtepec mayor’s office.

The local government stressed its ongoing cooperation with federal and state authorities and urged beachgoers to avoid unsafe waters and follow safety guidelines provided by lifeguards. Zicatela Beach, although a renowned surfing location, is known for its dangerous undertow and is not suitable for casual swimmers.

This tragic event adds to a history of similar incidents at the beach. Last month, a young man named Miguel Robles drowned while his older brother was rescued. A year earlier, Romanian tourist Andra Kitsu also lost her life there despite warnings.

Bretzer, who had previously worked as a youth soccer coach and was currently a freelance marketing consultant, is being remembered for his vibrant spirit and the meaningful connections he fostered. A close friend, Graeme Bouvier, has organized a fundraiser to assist Bretzer’s family in bringing his remains back to Canada, describing him as someone who made others feel valued and loved.