Naya Rivera’s Tragic Drowning and Her Son’s Brave Attempt to Save Her

On July 8, 2020, Naya Rivera tragically drowned at Lake Piru, leaving her 4-year-old son, Josey, alone on their boat. While Josey survived, new details reveal his courageous efforts to save his mother. His father, Ryan Dorsey, shared that Josey tried to throw a rope to Naya but froze when he saw a spider on it. “Something he’s said over and over is that he was trying to find a life raft,” Ryan explained. Despite his bravery, Josey couldn’t save Naya, who was last heard calling his name before disappearing underwater.

Josey’s Memories and Struggles

Josey’s memories of the day are deeply painful. “He said that the last thing she said was his name, and then she went under,” Ryan shared. Josey still carries the weight of that moment, and his father reassures him that it wasn’t his fault.

Life After the Tragedy

Ryan moved Josey to West Virginia after Naya’s death to help him cope. Naya’s sister, Nickayla, lived with them for a year, providing stability. “She held it down and kept that consistency,” Ryan said.

Honoring Naya’s Legacy

Now 9, Josey continues to honor his mother’s memory through a memory book and music. Ryan shared a heartfelt tribute, writing, “Thoughts every day about how it went wrong,” reflecting on their ongoing grief.