Winter Garden high schooler dies after drowning

Ricky Alejandro Martinez, 19, from Winter Garden, and his friends went to Ormond Beach Saturday, March 14 to enjoy the beginning of spring break. 

Martinez, senior at West Orange High School, was swimming in an area with no lifeguards around 1 p.m. and was caught in a rip current. 

He appeared to be in distress, but by the time Beach Safety officials pulled him out of the water, he was unconscious. 

CPR was administered until ambulances got to the scene to transport Martinez to the hospital, but he passed away later that day. 

"What made Ricky truly special was his heart," his obituary says. "He consistently put others before himself and made it his mission to love, support and care for those around him. ...But more than anything, he was known for his constant smile, contagious laughter and joyful spirit. He had a way of making everyone feel seen, loved and included." 

He is survived by his parents Deanna and Richard Martinez, his sister Sierra Martinez, and his dog Levi. 

His Celebration of Life service will take place Saturday, March 21.

To help the Martinez family, click here.  

"No one can ever be prepared for a moment like this and any help whether through donations, time, prayers or support is deeply appreciated," his sister wrote.