Smithfield Man Dies In Accidental Drowning

SMITHFIELD, N.C. – Authorities have identified a 27-year-old man who drowned Saturday afternoon while swimming in a pond on Galilee Road.

The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim as Tyler Ryan Watson of Smithfield.

The incident was reported around 2:20 p.m. Saturday in the 2100 block of Galilee Road.

Investigators said Watson was swimming in the pond when he began struggling and called for help.

A fisherman who was nearby in a small boat immediately went to assist Watson but was unable to locate him. The fisherman then called 911.

An extensive search followed involving boats and personnel from Smithfield Fire Department, Four Oaks Fire Department, the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, Wayne County Sheriff’s Office and fire departments from Wayne County.

After several hours of searching, crews located Watson’s body.

Authorities said Monday that Watson’s death had been ruled accidental.