Family remembers 16-year-old Jawaun Jordan after tragic drowning at Zink Lake

Q: What happened at Zink Lake?

The Tulsa Fire Department says two people entered the water Saturday afternoon. One was rescued quickly, but 16-year-old Jawaun Jordan did not survive. 

The Tulsa Fire Department deployed boats, a raft, and dozens of personnel to search for him. After about an hour, they recovered his body.

Jawaun’s family says he wasn't there to swim, just to enjoy the view.

“He wasn't there to swim,” his aunt, Charm Jackson said. “He was basically enjoying the view. Fell in, and now we lost him.”

Q: Who was Jawaun Jordan?

Jackson says he was homeschooled, loved football, video games, music, and above all, his family.

“He loved football. He loved his sister and family time. He loved his family the most,” Jackson said. “Loved listening to music, just having a good time like a normal teenager would.”

Q: How is his family remembering him?

Jackson says Jawaun had a special way of lifting others up.

“His ability to light up a room when it was dark… he didn’t like to see nobody sad. So he’d find any type of way to make you laugh,” Jackson said.

Family and friends gathered Monday night for a balloon release in his honor, calling him “resilient,” “caring,” and “generous.”

Q: Is the family calling for change?

Yes. Jackson says the area near Zink Lake needs safety measures like fencing, warning signs, or barriers to prevent similar accidents.

“We know that it's a park, but there’s been people asking for them to put up safety measures there,” Jackson said. “Now it's taken the life of somebody that we love.”

She believes that if precautions had been in place, Jawaun might still be alive.

Q: What did the city say about the incident?

River Parks Authority released a statement offering condolences to the family:

“We are deeply saddened by the recent tragedy at the Tulsa Wave Park and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones affected. This loss is felt across our entire community, and we share in the grief of all those impacted.

River Parks exists to provide safe, accessible outdoor experiences for everyone. While all park related activities carry inherent risks, our park rules and regulations are carefully designed to minimize those risks and protect our visitors. We urge all guests to follow posted guidelines, wear appropriate safety gear, and remain vigilant when engaging with park features.

We remain committed to working with local authorities and safety experts to ensure our facilities continue to meet the highest standards. The Tulsa Wave Park was created to celebrate our river’s energy and beauty, but it must always be approached with caution and respect.

Our thoughts remain with the family during this difficult time.”

Q: How can the public support the family?

Jawaun’s family has created a fundraiser to help with funeral expenses.