New Bedford man swept away by floodwaters in Puerto Rico found dead

Sarah Doiron and Alex Torres Perez

6 minutes ago

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — Alex DaLomba Tavares had the time of his life while vacationing in Puerto Rico with his girlfriend.

But things quickly took a turn for the worst when the New Bedford man was swept away by the rising tide.

Sandy Duarte, Tavares’ cousin, told 12 News the couple was visiting Gozalandia Waterfall in San Sebastian when he was caught in the powerful storm surge.

“He tried so hard to hold on, but the water just took him away,” Duarte explained.

Tavares’ body was finally found on the banks of the Culebrinas River on Friday after an intensive two-day search.

“It’s just unfortunate,” Duarte said. “His life was cut far too short.”

Duarte described the 28-year-old as someone who was always the life of the party.

“He was the sweetest person who never bothered anyone,” she said. “He was nice, funny and just cool to be around.”

Duarte told 12 News she is grateful for the support her family has received since her cousin’s disappearance.

“It was very hard on our family,” she said. “Please just keep us in your prayers.”

Puerto Rico has been hit by severe storms in recent days, prompting Gov. Pedro Pierluisi to declare a state of emergency due to heavy rains and widespread flooding.