A heartbreaking incident unfolded in the Sacramento River over the weekend, claiming the life of a 15-year-old who selflessly attempted to rescue his younger brother. Amari Quarles was enjoying a family gathering at Sand Cove Park when his 13-year-old brother, Elijah, entered the strong current to retrieve a football. Seeing his brother struggling, Amari bravely jumped in to help, but both boys were quickly swept downstream.
Amari's stepmother, Yolanda Sashe, also entered the water in a desperate attempt to save the boys. She described the powerful current as an overwhelming force, making it incredibly difficult to swim against. A nearby boater managed to rescue Yolanda and Elijah, but tragically, Amari was carried away by the relentless water.
Amari's body was recovered the following morning, leaving his family and community devastated. His father, James Sashe, expressed his grief and pride, stating that Amari died a hero, sacrificing his own life to save his brother's. The family remembered Amari as a bright and caring young man who loved football, music, and excelled academically, recently completing his freshman year with straight As.
Elijah shared a poignant memory of his brother's final words, revealing that Amari had said, "One of us is going to have to go down," ensuring that it wouldn't be Elijah. The family, who recently relocated from New York, is grappling with the immense loss. Amari's mother, Marjorie Quarles, described her son as a source of joy and comfort, always striving to bring smiles to those around him.
This tragedy comes amid a series of recent drownings in Northern California rivers, which are currently experiencing high water levels and swift currents due to melting snowpack. Authorities have issued warnings urging people to exercise extreme caution and avoid entering the water. Just days before Amari's passing, the body of a 20-year-old man was recovered from the Yuba River, and two weeks prior, two young siblings tragically lost their lives in the Kings River. These incidents underscore the critical importance of water safety, especially during periods of high water flow.
A GoFundMe page has been established to assist the Quarles family with funeral expenses. The outpouring of support reflects the profound impact Amari had on those who knew him and the community's shared grief over this devastating loss.
