SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Va. (WFXR) – After the death of Jesse Hamric, who is presumed to have been killed by an accidental electrocution while vacationing with family at Smith Mountain Lake over the July 4, friends give insight into what his loss means to them.

Alex Schwab and Jesse knew each other for three years and shared a love for snowboarding.
“He was the person I always wanted to be around; I would just tell him I love him honestly, he’s so special to me. I’ll miss him every day.” – Alex Schwab

Jesse Hamric grew up in Steamboat Springs Colorado, a small ski town. He graduated from high school just weeks ago and played football and baseball, as well as being known as a talented snowboarder.

Friends who jumped into the water to help Jesse also reported being shocked. Results from the medical examiner are still pending for the official cause of death.

The Hamric family has started a GoFundMe in his name, ‘Jesse Cyrus Hamric Fund for Courage and Love.’