Authorities Identify Drowning Victim Recovered Near McFarland Park Community Mourns the Loss of Joshua Lee Chaney, 43, of Russellville

FLORENCE, AL — A tragic weekend incident has left the Shoals community grieving after authorities confirmed the death of 43-year-old Joshua Lee Chaney, who drowned while swimming near McFarland Park on Saturday afternoon.

The Lauderdale County Coroner’s Office, led by Kim Jones, officially identified the victim and confirmed that Chaney was from Russellville, Alabama. According to multiple eyewitness accounts, Chaney had been swimming from the beach area toward a buoy in the Tennessee River when he began to show signs of distress. On his return swim, he reportedly struggled in the water before disappearing beneath the surface.

A Community Comes Together for the Search

Emergency officials were notified shortly after Chaney went under, prompting an urgent and comprehensive multi-agency search and recovery effort. The search began Saturday evening but was paused overnight due to fading light and safety concerns. Crews returned to the water early Sunday morning, determined to bring closure to the Chaney family and the broader community.

At approximately 11:40 a.m. on Sunday, Chaney’s body was located roughly 200 yards from where he was last seen above water. He was found submerged in a part of the river that measured 8 to 10 feet deep. His body was recovered thanks to underwater sonar imaging utilized by the Colbert County Boat Team, whose specialized technology proved crucial in navigating the river’s depths and current.

Coordinated Search Efforts Across Multiple Jurisdictions

The large-scale search effort highlighted the collaboration and dedication of numerous local and regional agencies, including:

• Florence Police Department

• Florence Fire and Rescue

• Colbert County Sheriff’s Office

• Alabama Marine Police

• Sheffield Police Department

The operation employed dive teams, watercraft, drones, and sonar to scan and search the riverbank and the water. Emergency crews worked under challenging conditions, demonstrating professionalism, precision, and compassion throughout the process.

Officials acknowledged the strong coordination among departments as critical to the timely recovery and credited the persistence and commitment of search crews for helping bring answers to the grieving family.

Remembering Joshua Lee Chaney

While the details of the incident paint a heartbreaking picture, those who knew Joshua Lee Chaney remember a man full of life, energy, and kindness. A native of Russellville, Chaney was known for his warm spirit and his love for the outdoors. Friends describe him as someone who brought people together — a devoted family man and a loyal friend with a quick smile and a generous heart.

As news of his passing spread, tributes and messages of condolence have poured in from community members, many of whom gathered at McFarland Park in the hours following the recovery to pay their respects and support one another.

Though nothing can ease the pain of such a sudden and tragic loss, the outpouring of love and support from the Shoals community has offered some comfort to those closest to Chaney.

A Sobering Reminder of Water Safety

While McFarland Park and the Tennessee River are popular summer destinations for locals and visitors alike, authorities are reminding the public of the importance of water safety, particularly in areas where currents can be deceptively strong.

Officials encourage swimmers to remain within designated safe zones, wear personal flotation devices when swimming outside marked areas, and never swim alone or after physical exertion.

A Final Word

The Shoals Insider joins the entire community in expressing our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and loved ones of Joshua Lee Chaney. May his memory be a blessing, and may those who grieve find strength in the support of their community and the cherished memories they hold.

Anyone with further questions regarding water safety or public updates about the park is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the Florence Parks and Recreation Department.